One of the most controversial diplomatic decision of President Trump’s reign was the inauguration of the US Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem! The decision sparked protests in the Arab world and was criticized by the international community.
On Monday, the day of the inauguration, several thousand protesters have gathered near the Gaza Strip’s border with Israel, while Israel’s military said it will stop a possible border breach at all costs, warning protesters they are endangering their lives. Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinian protestors and at press time the death toll rose to 52 including five minors, and more than a thousand wounded!
President Trump addressed the inauguration via a video conference, while Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan were among the US delegation.
British Prime Minister Theresa May has reiterated that the country has no plans to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
“Dozens of Palestinians, including children, have been killed and hundreds injured from Israeli fire today, during ongoing mass protests near the Gaza fence. We expect all to act with utmost restraint to avoid further loss of life,” stated EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini.
In a similar manner, Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri said “On this day, we reaffirm our rejection of the decision to consider Jerusalem the capital of Israel”
