Trump announces the U.S. will recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital

(Image credit: Screenshot/Twitter/CNN)

published 6 December 2017

President Trump formally recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital on Wednesday, though the embassy will remain in Tel Aviv for security purposes for the next six months. "There will of course be disagreement and dissent regarding this announcement — but we are confident that ultimately, as we work through these disagreements, we will arrive at a place of greater understanding and cooperation," Trump said.

The decision is extremely controversial, both fulfilling a campaign promise Trump made to evangelical Christians and pro-Israel supporters and angering U.S. allies abroad. Saudi Arabia's King Salman reportedly warned Trump that "moving the U.S. embassy is a dangerous step that provokes the feelings of Muslims around the world."

Trump has been told by others that the move could derail the already shaky peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, but Trump insisted the United States is not taking sides. Read more about why the decision is so controversial here at The Week, and watch some of Trump's comments below. Jeva Lange

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Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.