Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Remarks on President Trump’s Statement re: Jerusalem

This is a historic day.

Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish people for 3,000 years. It has been the capital of Israel for nearly 70 years. It was here that our temples stood, our kings ruled, and our prophets preached.

Jerusalem has been the focus of our hopes, dreams, and prayers for three millennia. From every corner of the earth, our people have yearned to return to Jerusalem—to touch its golden stones and walk its hallowed streets.

It is rare to witness new and genuine milestones in the glorious history of this city. Yet, today’s pronouncement by President Trump is such an occasion.

We are profoundly grateful to the President for his courageous and just decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and to prepare for the opening of the U.S. embassy here. This decision reflects the President’s commitment to an ancient but enduring truth, to fulfilling his promises, and to advancing peace.

The President’s decision is an important step toward peace, for there is no peace that does not include Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel. I call on all countries that seek peace to join the United States in recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and to move their embassies here.

I share President Trump’s commitment to advancing peace between Israel and all of our neighbors, including the Palestinians. This has been our goal since Israel’s founding, and we will continue working with the President and his team to make the dream of peace a reality.

I also want to make it clear: there will be no change whatsoever to the status quo at the holy sites. Israel will always ensure freedom of worship for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.

President Trump, thank you for today’s historic decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. The Jewish people and the Jewish state will be forever grateful.