Missouri lawmakers, others react to Pres. Trump’s decision on Jerusalem
On Wednesday, Pres. Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, announcing plans to relocate the U.S. Embassy there.
Missouri lawmakers, including Gov. Eric Greitens, responded to the president’s decision.
Greitens tweeted Wednesday afternoon that he spoke to and congratulated Vice President Mike Pence about the decision.
Republican Sen. Roy Blunt said, “Pres. Trump’s announcement today recognizes that Jerusalem is an integral part of Israel’s history, and will be an essential and enduring part of its future. I continue to support efforts to advance negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, and today’s announcement should in no way hinder that process.”
Right now, no country has an embassy in Jerusalem.
Wednesday’s decision will allow the state department to begin the process to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
“This will immediately begin the process of hiring architects, engineers and planners so that a new embassy, when completed, will be a magnificent tribute to peace,” said Trump.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the announcement ends the U.S.’s role as a mediator in peace talks between Israel and Palestine, which considers East Jerusalem its capital.
“This dangerous, counterproductive and self-serving move should be rejected by every American who looks forward to a just and comprehensive resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” said CAIR national executive director Nihad Awad.
