Israel
US unlikely to open Embassy in Jerusalem
In a new blog published today, JR online editor ANT KATZ explains the history and politics of the US moving its Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
STAFF REPORTER
The US Congress mandated the moving of its Israeli embassy to Jerusalem many years ago, says Katz in US unlikely to open Embassy in Jerusalem – “but the nation’s security services have warned that such a move could endanger US facilities and personnel in the wider region. Here’s why even Trump will likely backtrack…”
“Despite much speculation to the contrary, Trump’s team now seems to be back-tracking and all that exists in the public domain is that Ambassador Friedman will “work from” Jerusalem,” he opines. “Many pundits see this as an intention to relocate the embassy – but (as much as I would like to see such an action take place) – I think the risks will outweigh the benefits and the associated risk may be more than it is worth.”
Yesterday the Palestinian Authority added its voice, with Mahmoud Abbas threatening certain sanctions on Israel if the move goes ahead… really!