Decision to move US Embassy to Jerusalem is provocative, says MP

Mr Burden said today

Jerusalem is a holy city for Jews, Christians and Muslims alike, and there has long been consensus amongst the international community that the city’s status can only be settled fairly through negotiations. The fact that foreign embassies are based in Tel Aviv rather than Jerusalem reflects both reality and a long standing international resolve not to prejudice the future. That is particularly important when international law regards the eastern part of the city as occupied land, and when increasing numbers of Palestinian Jerusalemites are being forcibly evicted from their homes by Israel.

President Trump’s decision to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem is provocative, it undermines the ability of the US to credibly broker talks between Israel and Palestine and it will only fan the flames of conflict at a time when international efforts should be focussed on reducing tension, upholding the rule of law and promoting peace.