By Christian Smith
Violence protests have erupted in the Palestine west bank after the US President broke US tradition by proclaiming Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
Both Israelis and Palestinians have always claimed the city as their spiritual capital. But, in a speech at the White House on Wednesday Donald Trump said he had “determined it is time to officially recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.”
Adding that: “I’ve judged this course of action to be in the best interests of the United States of America and the pursuit of peace between Israel and the Palestinians.”
The creator of the reality TV programme, The Apprentice, has set in motion the relocation of the American embassy from Tel Aviv to the holy city.
In a statement from the White House, the president defended his decision as “nothing more or less than recognition of reality.”
Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the Labour Party has condemned the President for making such decision.
He said: “Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, including occupied Palestinian territory, is a reckless threat to peace.
“The British Government must condemn this dangerous act and work for a just and viable settlement of the conflict.”