Trump’s decision on Jerusalem sends strong message to world
This decision by Trump sends a strong message to the world that the United States is behind democracy and liberty in the region, given that Israel is the only free and democratic country in the Middle East, where citizens enjoy equal rights. It faces threats from neighbouring countries governed by regimes which are not democratic.
The state of Israel continues to be vilified by many groups in the region, and some continue to call for the state of Israel to be wiped out. Some countries waged wars against Israel, not recognising its declaration of independence in 1948. Previous US administrations were reluctant to change the status quo and kept the embassy in Tel Aviv, fearing that there would be conflict if they moved to Jerusalem. So Trump’s decision is a huge step forward.
It has great symbolic meaning that the world’s only superpower recognises Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. The Jewish people have a long history of persecution. Despite this efforts have been made in Israel to ensure peaceful integration of Arabs and Jews in Israeli society.
In contrast, Palestinian groups like Hamas are causing civilian casualties through rocket attacks, but do not always come in for the same criticism from the international community as Israel. I hope Trump’s decision will lead to fairer treatment of Israel.