Statements Made by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson (Jerusalem)

Jerusalem

Question from the media: Do you think the United States can play a credible role in reviving the peace process if, as planned, they recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and prepare to move their Embassy? Donald Trump’s latest statements leave practically no doubt as to his intention to move the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, thereby officially recognizing that city as the capital of Israel. “Three days of rage” have been decreed in the Palestinian Territories. The entire Middle East could explode into violence, possibly reenergizing followers of the so-called Islamic State. Beyond France’s recent statements calling for negotiations on the status of Jerusalem, how do you really, concretely plan on acting in the ensuing situation, with the Palestinians already signaling that such a move would the end of the two-state solution?

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson: On December 4, President Macron expressed his concern over the possibility that the United States would recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

He reiterated that the status of Jerusalem must be resolved through peace negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians aimed at establishing two states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with Jerusalem as their capital.

As you know, France is committed to abiding by international law and to the implementation of the internationally agreed parameters to achieve a just and lasting solution to the Middle East conflict.