Jerusalem reflects ground realities: US
Says it’s committed to peace process in the Middle East
Washington, Dec. 8: Facing global isolation for recognising Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, the White House on Friday defended President Donald Trump’s decision, asserting that it was a reflection of the ground realities and the US was committed to the Middle East peace process.
“In the President’s remarks, he said that we are as committed to the peace process as ever, and we want to continue to push forward in those conversations and those discussions.
“And hopefully the ultimate goal, of all those parties is to reach a peace a deal. That’s something that the United States is very much committed,” White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters.
When asked whether any other country is planning to follow the US in this regard, Ms Sanders said, “I’m not aware of any country’s commitment to follow suit on this.
“I’m not aware that happening at any point soon. I’m not saying that they are not, but I’m not aware of them,” she went on to explain.
At a separate briefing, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David M. Satterfield reiterated Mr Trump’s landmark announcement on Wednesday recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
The United States, he said, regards issues like boundaries of sovereignty, borders as a matter for permanent status or final status negotiations to be resolved by the parties concerned.
The New York Daily News editorial board said anti-Israel forces need to get through their heads sooner or later on this issue. “The Jewish State isn’t going anywhere. Deal with it,” it said.