Saudi arabia rejects us embassy transfer to jerusalem

A significant development in the Middle East!

On November 18, 2018, Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Adel al-Jubeir, announced that Saudi Arabia rejects the United States' decision to transfer its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This move is seen as a significant blow to the US administration's efforts to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Here's the background:

In December 2017, US President Donald Trump announced that the US would recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This decision was widely criticized by the international community, including the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the European Union, which consider East Jerusalem to be occupied territory and a potential capital of a future Palestinian state.

Saudi Arabia, a key player in the Middle East, has long been a vocal critic of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories and has supported the Palestinian cause. The country has also been a close ally of the United States, but this decision has put a strain on their relationship.

The Saudi Foreign Minister's statement:

In a press conference, al-Jubeir said that Saudi Arabia rejects the US decision to transfer its embassy to Jerusalem, calling it "unjust" and "unfair." He emphasized that the status of Jerusalem should be resolved through negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, and that the US decision would only serve to "fuel tensions" in the region.

The implications:

This development has significant implications for the Middle East peace process and the US-Saudi relationship. It may also lead to increased tensions between the US and the Arab world, potentially affecting regional stability and security.

The Palestinian Authority, which has been a key player in the peace process, has welcomed Saudi Arabia's stance, saying that it "supports the Arab and Islamic position" on the issue.

The Israeli government, on the other hand, has expressed disappointment and frustration with Saudi Arabia's decision, saying that it "ignores the historical and religious significance" of Jerusalem to the Jewish people.

The US administration has not yet commented on Saudi Arabia's rejection, but it is likely that the decision will further strain relations between the two countries.

Overall, this development highlights the complex and sensitive nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the challenges of finding a peaceful resolution to the issue.