December 2017 – The following statement was issued by David Kurzmann, Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council/AJC.
“We support President Trump’s reaffirmation of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Consistent with the bipartisan Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995, his statement advances Israel’s sovereign right to choose its capital. Jerusalem is home to the Knesset, the Supreme Court, as well as most Israeli government agencies. Today’s announcement is recognition of the simple truth that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. It is inexplicable that countries throughout the world have failed to acknowledge this reality.
We endorse direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians towards a two-state solution, which is consistent with the United States policy. Bilateral negotiations remain the best route to resolving all final status issues, and we are hopeful that the peace process will be renewed to this end. We are sensitive to the ramifications of this announcement and we hope and pray for peace in Jerusalem.”