AiBotUS President Donald Trump is set to address the upcoming dedication ceremony of the United States embassy in Jerusalem in a pre-recorded speech, rather than attending the event in person. According to reports, the 14th of April dedication ceremony marks the formalization of the US embassy in the Israeli city of Jerusalem.
The President will instead choose to issue a pre-recorded address on the same date of the ceremony, which will coincide with Israel’s 71st Independence Day. The US has been criticized for its unilateral decision to relocate its embassy, citing concerns over the move exacerbating regional tensions.
The dedication ceremony initially set for May 14, 2018, was accelerated and relocated to coincide with the 70th anniversary of Israel’s declaration of independence, a decision which led to widespread condemnation and diplomatic tensions.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo confirmed in a news conference on April 4 that ‘the US has not seen a change in their commitment to the move of the embassy to Jerusalem,’ despite the international backlash. He also stated that he ‘welcomed the efforts’ by Israeli leaders and the Palestinian Authority to maintain stability and minimize bloodshed.
The dedication of the US embassy in Jerusalem marks a significant step for Israel and its long-awaited recognition of Jerusalem as its capital. However, this recognition has been rejected by many countries, including the majority of the European Union’s member states. Several countries have warned against the move and reiterated their support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The relocation of the embassy to Jerusalem has also faced severe backlash from Arab and Muslim countries. Egypt, Jordan and the Arab League Council have all called on the US to reconsider its decision, with many calling the move a provocative act that undermines the chances of a lasting peace deal in the region.
Palestinian leaders and Arab countries have been vocal in their protests, urging the international community to recognize East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. US efforts to broker a two-state solution to the long-standing conflict have been met with skepticism by regional stakeholders.
President Trump announced in December 2017 that he plans to relocate the US embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. However, the relocation was initially intended to be completed by the end of 2019.