Below is a list of statements from members of Congress following the administration’s Dec. 6 announcement that the United States will now officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel:
U.S. Senate:
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT)
“Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, and I’ve strongly supported acknowledging that simple fact. My hope is that the President’s announcement of his recognition of Jerusalem will be followed by meaningful steps to advance the peace process, including secure borders for Israel and a two-state solution.”
“President Trump’s announcement today recognizes that Jerusalem is an integral part of Israel’s history, and will be an essential and enduring part of its future. I continue to support efforts to advance negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, and today’s announcement should in no way hinder that process.”
READ MORE: Why the Jerusalem decision is important.
“This is a long overdue decision that I, and a majority of my colleagues in Congress, have been calling for in the decades since the law was passed. I applaud President Trump for making the historic determination to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and for pledging to move our embassy there. During the announcement, President Trump reaffirmed our commitment to a process that brings lasting peace to the region. Recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capitol in no way weakens our resolve to achieve through direct talks between the Israelis and Palestinians.”
Ranking Member Ben Cardin (D-MD), Senate Foreign Relations Committee
“The President’s announcement today implements what Congress affirmed in 1995 with the passage of the Jerusalem Embassy Act: Jerusalem is the capital of the State of Israel and the location of the U.S. Embassy should reflect this fact. Going forward, it is critical that all religious and ethnic groups continue to have access to Jerusalem.
“I expect that in advance of the President’s announcement appropriate planning and precautions were taken to ensure the safety of U.S. personnel and facilities, and also that careful consideration and consultations focused on not exacerbating conflicts in a region already suffering from unprecedented levels of violence.
“I look forward to learning more about the Administration’s plans for restarting direct negotiations for a just, sustainable two-state solution.”
Chairman Bob Corker (R-TN), Senate Foreign Relations Committee
“Today’s announcement recognizes what has been true for almost 70 years, namely that Jerusalem is Israel’s seat of government. On a bipartisan basis, Congress has repeatedly voted overwhelmingly to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and I applaud the president’s initiative in making this a reality. Maintaining a close working relationship with our regional partners and ensuring the security of our embassy personnel and facilities will be critical as the administration takes steps to operationalize this decision, and I look forward to working with them toward that end.”
“I enthusiastically commend President Trump for today’s courageous and heroic decision. Roughly 120 years since a pioneer of the Zionist movement, Theodore Herzl, convened the first Zionist Congress in Basel, 50 years since the reunification of Jerusalem during the Six Day War, and nearly 70 years after the United States was the first country to give recognition to the modern State of Israel, the President of the United States has for the first time formally recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Today, December 6, 2017, the President also announced that he will move the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This day will forever be etched in the history books as one of the great moments in history. The strongest and most prosperous country in the world has rectified what has been a historic injustice for far too long, recognizing the ancient and sacred city that has been the eternal capital of the Jewish people for over 3,000 years, and the capital of the one and only Jewish State since 1948. This announcement recognizes the reality that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, and sends a powerful message that rejects all those who wrongly seek to delegitimize Israel through falsifying and erasing the profound ties that exist between the Jewish people and Jerusalem. I encourage countries around the world to now engage in their own moment of historical moral clarity, to follow America’s lead in recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, immediately begin the process of moving their embassies to Jerusalem, and stand with the United States and Israel in voting against any future effort in international forums that attempts to deny historic truth.”
“I support POTUS announcement recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. It demonstrates a strong commitment to our ally & is consistent with a bill passed by Congress & enacted into law under President Clinton in 1995.”
“I fully support the Trump Administration’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel because this statement reflects the reality on the ground for the last 3,000 years.
“Why did the Trump Administration decide to declare Jerusalem the capital of Israel? Because it always has been and always will be.”
“Finally, the decision announced today does not take other options off the table regarding a two-state solution.”
“Jerusalem Embassy Act of ‘95 (Senate vote 93-5 & I voted for it) states embassy should be in Jerusalem by 5/31/99. For 18 yrs, Rep + Dem presidents waived. Congrats Pres Trump for making this move. Amen!!!”
“I am thrilled with the President’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and his plan to move the US Embassy there. When I spoke to General McMaster yesterday, I was able to ask him a number of logistical details about the move. During my conversation with the National Security Advisor, I expressed my full support for the President’s decision, which takes into careful consideration the needs of America’s allies—both in the region and around the world. I have long supported the recognition of Jerusalem as the official Israeli capital, most notably as a co-sponsor of the Jerusalem Embassy and Recognition Act, which my colleagues introduced to the Senate in January. The President’s action, which reaffirms US legislation that has been on the books since 1995, sends a clear signal that we are prepared to defend the interests of the United States and its allies.”
“As one of our strongest allies in the fight against terrorism and in promoting peace in the Middle East, America’s support to Israel must be unwavering. I applaud President Trump for his decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. I’m also pleased that the Administration committed to developing a plan to relocate the American Embassy to Jerusalem, action that I have repeatedly pushed for because while a law was passed more than 20 years ago to do just that, it has never been enacted. That is why I have authored legislation that demands the United States no longer turns a blind eye to its promise. Today’s decision sends a message to our strongest and oldest ally in the Middle East: the United States stands with Israel.”
“I applaud President Trump for officially recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and beginning the process of moving our embassy to the Holy City. Not since supporting the creation of Israel in 1947 has the United States done more to uphold our strategic and long-standing ally, Israel. As an original cosponsor of the legislation that prompted this action, I look forward to supporting him and his administration over the next few years as they begin the process of moving the embassy to Jerusalem.
“For over two decades, presidents of both parties have delayed the implementation of the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Act, leading to confusion about U.S. policy and preventing meaningful progress to forming a lasting peace. With his clear commitment to Israel, President Trump is once again showing the world he’s prepared to take decisive action and restore the United States to being the undisputed leader of the free world.”
“After more than two decades of bipartisan requests from congress, I applaud the President’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and the start of a long process to move the US embassy to Jerusalem. The Government of Israel officially resides in Jerusalem; ignoring the obvious physical location of the Israeli Knesset and the office of the Prime Minister in West Jerusalem does not bring the region closer to peace, it only placates those that want to destabilize the region. Israel is not the problem in the Middle East, it is part of the solution. Notion about today’s announcement will impact America’s commitment to honor any solution which brings about peace resulting from direct talks between the Israelis and Palestinians. Israel ids America’s closest friend in the Middle East and she is a solid partner in research, strategic defense and freedom. We have a unique relationship and special bond among nations.”
“I applaud President Trump’s proclamation and join him in recognizing that both throughout history and today, Jerusalem is the true capital of Israel. The President has also been bold in directing that the State Department expeditiously begin to move the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, following the international custom of having official diplomatic representation in national capitals around the globe.
“Today, I welcome the announcement from the President affirming established U.S. law that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and that the Embassy of the United States should reside in the capital. I have always supported moving the United States Embassy to Jerusalem, and have always said it is not a matter of “if” but “when”.
“The President’s announcement also reaffirms twenty years of United States policy – to support efforts to reach a two-state solution that provides peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians and to support direct negotiations for the parties to determine final status that ensures all people and faiths have access to this holy city to which the Jewish people have been connected for more than 3,000 years. I look forward to hearing the Administration’s efforts to restart a meaningful peace process.
“I believe the President should coordinate closely with our important allies in the region, particularly those who are also friends of Israel. Violence is never an appropriate course of action, and I trust the President coordinated closely with the Secretaries of State and Defense to ensure that our diplomats, service members, and citizens abroad are well-protected.”
“It’s long overdue we send a powerful message of support to one of our closest allies, Israel. I commend President Trump for taking continued steps to reaffirm the United States’ relationship with Israel after years of questionable policies from the Obama Administration. As a new U.S. Senator, I made my first international trip to Israel and personally met with Prime Minister Netanyahu. By recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, the President is recognizing both an historic and modern reality, Jerusalem is the center for the Jewish people and all parts of Israeli government reside there today. President Trump has shown Israel is a priority, and we will continue to work together in support of our longtime friend and ally.”
“#Jerusalem has always been the capital of Israel. I’ve long supported moving the U.S. embassy there, including voting for the bipartisan Jerusalem Embassy Act in 1995.”
“I commend President Trump for following U.S. law and recognizing Jerusalem as the eternal capital of the Jewish state of Israel. The Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995, which Congress passed during the Clinton administration, requires the United States not only to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, but also to eventually move the American embassy to Jerusalem.
“Today’s announcement is an important step in the right direction. Unequivocal recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital will be complete when the U.S. embassy is officially relocated there.”
Senate Democratic Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY)
“As someone who strongly believes that Jerusalem is the undivided capital of Israel, I am calling for the US Embassy in Israel to be relocated to Jerusalem.”
“The fact is, for all intents and purposes, Jerusalem is and has been the capital of Israel. Their legislature is seated there, as well as their Prime Minister. Congress has repeatedly voted in a bipartisan manner in favor of recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and the President has made the right decision to formalize that recognition. I look forward to our embassy moving there as security and staffing are ramped up, as well as strengthening our relationship with Israel as efforts to find peace in the region continue.”
“I applaud @POTUS for reaffirming our commitment to our greatest ally in the Middle East by recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, following through on many years of bipartisan advocacy.”
“It’s long overdue for Israel to be able to have the rest of the world recognize Jerusalem as its capital.”
“President Trump’s courageous decision to relocate America’s embassy to Jerusalem is long overdue. I supported bipartisan legislation to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem in 1995 as a freshman member of the House of Representatives. I believe now what I did then: Jerusalem is the eternal and undivided home of the Jewish people. We should treat Israel like we do every other country and locate our embassy in its capital city.
“Concerns that moving the embassy will endanger negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians distract from the real and enduring threats to peace – the continued refusal to acknowledge Israel’s right to exist and the lingering hostility toward the Jewish state from Palestinian leadership and other groups around the world. A peace process that cannot withstand moving the location of America’s embassy was never serious in the first place.”
The Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 requires the United States to establish its embassy in Jerusalem. Then-Congressman Wicker voted for the legislation, which passed 374-37 in the House of Representatives and 93-5 in the Senate. Currently, the U.S. embassy is located in Tel Aviv, and the United States does not recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital – despite the fact that Jerusalem has been Israel’s capital since 1950.
The legislation includes a provision for a presidential waiver, which must be renewed every six months. Every U.S. president since President Bill Clinton has signed the waiver, keeping the U.S. embassy in Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv is home to several other embassies and is located about an hour outside the capital city of Jerusalem.
President Trump has instructed members of his administration to begin the process of moving the embassy to Jerusalem. The process is expected to take several years.
U.S. House of Representatives:
“I commend President @realDonaldTrump for recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s rightful capitol. Israel is our strongest ally in the region, and I’m glad to see that we are standing with them.”
“I fully support @POTUS decision to recognize #Jerusalem as the capital of #Israel. Having first been expressed in the Jerusalem Recognition Act of 1995 & reaffirmed by a unanimous vote in Senate just 6 months ago, this historic step has strong, bipartisan in Congress.”
“Today is an important day for the United States, and for our Israeli allies and friends. I applaud the President for affirming U.S. Law and recognizing Jerusalem as the eternal and undivided capital of Israel. The President’s actions today have righted a wrong in the application of double-standards to the State of Israel. It is a priority of mine to ensure the United States stands with our Israeli allies and strengthens our nation’s longstanding relationship with them.”
“Today’s announcement by President Trump re-affirms the special relationship between the United States and Israel. For thousands of years, Jerusalem has been the center of Jewish heritage and life. Recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital sends a strong message to the world that America stands with our cherished ally. It is great to have a president who is finally enforcing the law passed by Congress in 1995 recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.”
“I applaud President Trump’s action to implement the 1995 decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and to move our embassy to its rightful place in the city. Jerusalem is the historic capital of the Jewish people. I pray for a peaceful transition.”
“Thank you @realDonaldTrump for keeping your promise to the American people, recognizing #Jerusalem as Israel’s capital & relocating our U.S. embassy accordingly.”
“I fully support @realDonaldTrump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Thank you, Mr. President, for standing with our ally.”
“I applaud President Trump for fulfilling his promise to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Today’s announcement sends a clear signal to the world that in any coming peace negotiations we will not be pressuring Israel to give up its historic and religious capital. Congress passed a bipartisan law back in 1995 that required the movement of our embassy from Tel-Aviv to Jerusalem. This same law also stated that Jerusalem should be the “undivided” capital of Israel. This historic move by President Trump shows, once again, that the bond between our two countries is stronger than ever.”
Jerusalem is the historic, declared and functioning capital of Israel. Its legislature and other national institutions are in Jerusalem. There’s bipartisan support for recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and I applaud the president’s actions today.
“I support POTUS decision to formally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel & his announcement he will move the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Jerusalem is the eternal & undivided capital of the state of Israel, & the US has no closer or stronger ally than Israel.”
“Moving our embassy to Jerusalem is a long overdue recognition to the undeniable core of Israel. Today’s announcement by President Trump comes at a time when reaffirming the strong alliance between the United States and Israel is critical towards stabilizing and advancing diplomacy in the region. We remain committed to peaceful solutions to conflict in the region and working with our partners.”
“Grateful to @POTUS for today’s historic action to officially recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. No other nation can say they have been a more loyal friend to America throughout their existence than the State of #Israel.”
“Jerusalem is without question the capital of Israel and I commend the President’s decision to recognize it as such. Denying simple, obvious truths is not a strategy for peace. With this decision we are not only standing by our ally, but also recognizing the freedom of all major faiths to continue worshiping in Jerusalem.”
“President Trump is doing what his recent predecessors have promised but failed to deliver: formal recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, to be followed by relocation of the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Fifty years after the reunification of Jerusalem, the ancient and holy city stands as one of the jewels of the world, and Israel’s stewardship of the holy sites (Jewish, Christian and Muslim) since being liberated from Jordanian occupation has been tremendous. With President Trump’s announcement, the U.S. is finally following through with what Congress enacted in the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Act.”
“I am pleased by President Trump’s bold decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. It is well past time that our embassy is moved to its rightful home. Though many may be upset with the decision, or even use this as an excuse to incite violence, we must remember that Jerusalem is the country’s true capital. I commend the administration for its resolute commitment to our allies.”
“I support the President’s decision to formally recognize what has been the reality for a long time Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. The city is Israel’s seat of government and where the country conducts its national business, and it makes no sense to ignore this fact. Today’s announcement affirms that after eight years, the U.S. is finally returning to our longstanding policy of supporting Israel. I applaud the President for taking much-needed steps to repair our relationship with our closest ally in the region.”
“President Trump is fulfilling yet another campaign promise in his decision to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, the nation’s capital…This move will serve as yet another bond in the friendship between our two great nations. I’m proud to stand with President Trump in the defense of Israel, and will continue to work my heart out in Congress to support one of our closest allies.”
“I applaud President Trump for recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and promising to move the U.S. Embassy to reflect this change in policy…I agree with President Trump that this decision is in the best interest of the United States as we work towards lasting peace.”
Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY), House Foreign Affairs Committee
“I support the decision to recognize Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Israel and to move the U.S. embassy there. This decision is long overdue and helps correct a decades-long indignity. It recognizes where Israel’s government—the parliament and the prime minister—is based, as well as the ancient and unbreakable connection between the Jewish people and Jerusalem. I look forward to a plan to ensure the safety and security of our embassy personnel.
“I urge parties in the region to be calm and work toward a sustainable two-state solution that can bring peace to Israelis and Palestinians.”
Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY)
“I stand with my Democratic colleagues Whip Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Rep. Jerry Nadler (NY-10), and Rep. Eliot L. Engel (NY-16), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, who have long been champions for the Jewish community following today’s decision to declare Jerusalem as Israel’s Capital. The United States has long supported efforts to enable Israeli and Palestinian leaders to come to a just and durable two-state solution, and I remain optimistic that peace can be achieved. I encourage the President to bring both parties to the table to negotiate the final status issues, once and for all, to find a lasting solution to allow the Jewish and democratic State of Israel to live side-by-side with the Palestinian people in peace and security.”
“I fully support the Administration’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and relocation of our embassy as we continue to work towards peace in that region. The six-month delay will allow this process to continue as we assess security and other considerations.”
“Today, President Trump made the historic announcement to declare Jerusalem the capital of Israel. For years, Jerusalem has been regarded as Israel’s capital city by the Knesset, the United States Congress, and the people of Israel. The President’s announcement reaffirms the longstanding friendship and support between United States and Israel. I applaud President Trump for his decision, and will continue to stand with Israel as our ally in the Middle East.”
“The President’s announcement today is consistent with current U.S. law and reaffirms what we already know: Jerusalem is the eternal capital of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. The U.S. must recommit to our long-standing goal of a negotiated solution that leads to two states for two people. Only direct negotiations between the parties will allow Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace, security and mutual recognition.”
“We congratulate President Trump’s courage in recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and her seat of government. This is an historic and long overdue decision. This recognition rectifies the seventy years of injustice in which the U.S. failed to extend the ancient international custom of maintaining our embassy in a nation’s declared capital – a courtesy we extend to some of the world’s most virulent actors.
“Many administrations have signed this shameful legal waiver which allows the President to avoid executing the statutory obligation to move our embassy to Jerusalem. President Trump has chosen to do the right thing for Israel; it is long past time for the U.S. to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal and undivided capital. While I wish he would have announced a more immediate relocation of our embassy, however, I am greatly encouraged by his decision to order the State Department to begin plans for a new embassy in Jerusalem. Neither President Trump, nor the American people, should allow the U.S. to be shaken from our resolve by threats of terrorism by petty savages around the world and their enablers who now threaten us with violence for simply following standard diplomatic protocol with our friends in Israel.
“Israel is America’s most cherished ally; this move signals Israel’s sovereignty in Jerusalem. We look forward to seeing the U.S. embassy open there as soon as possible.”
“Moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem sends the Palestinian Authority a message that their days of denying @Israel’s existence are over, & that they must become an honest partner in peace. I commend @realDonaldTrump today for honoring our friend & ally Israel”
“President Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as the rightful capital of Israel was not only an act of political valor, it was a promise kept to the American people who voted him into office.”
“Recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Thank you, @POTUS.”
“I have long believed that the United States must recognize that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, our vital ally, the leading democracy in the Middle East, and the nation-state of the Jewish people. Current law, signed by President Clinton in 1995, maintains that the United States Embassy in Israel should be established in its capital, Jerusalem. I strongly support making that happen, as soon as possible, and in the right way to protect our security and Israel’s. Recognizing this reality should not prejudice the outcome of a negotiated peace agreement that can only be achieved through direct talks between the two parties.”
“I applaud the decision today by @POTUS to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. Jerusalem is Israel’s undivided capital. By moving our embassy there, we’re sending a message of support for our strongest ally in the Middle East.”
“Jerusalem has been – & will always be – the undivided capital of Israel. I applaud President Trump for the decision to recognize it as such.”
“I applaud decision by @POTUS to recognize Jerusalem as rightful capital of #Israel. This move affirms existing U.S law and is common-sense: most of Israel’s government agencies and parliament are in Jerusalem. Proud to support our ally.”
Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD)
“Jerusalem is the capital of the State of Israel, something that the United States Congress has reaffirmed and a fact of history that cannot be denied. Our country must play a constructive role in supporting Israel as it seeks the peace and security its people deserve by continuing to promote a two-state solution through direct, bilateral negotiations that will end any question of Jerusalem’s status.”
“For years, Congress has overwhelmingly agreed that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. This decision confirms what we already knew, that the United States stands with our allies and friends.”
“Today will surely shine throughout world history. After decades of delay, the USA will officially recognize #Jerusalem as the capital of #Israel and rightly relocate our embassy there. I thank @realDonaldTrump for keeping his promise and standing strong with our friend for peace.”
“I support President Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel. The decision was not easy and there is no guarantee of success but it was the right move at the right time.
“The current strategy of ignoring reality has not worked. Israel is our closest ally in the Middle East and a strong and vibrant democracy. Despite the numerous concessions Israel has made over the years, the Palestinians still refuse to accept Israel’s legitimacy. After he left office, President Clinton told me his greatest regret was that after convincing the Israelis to give the Palestinians 95% of what they were demanding in 2000, Arafat and the Palestinians walked away from the table. Skeptics now say that recognizing Jerusalem as the Capital which cause Palestinian demonstrations and violence. Well there already is violence. I have been to Jerusalem a number of times and know how serious the situation is. I believe the President’s decision could very well break the status quo and restart the Peace Process.
“President Obama’s Middle East policies failed. He encouraged the Muslim Brotherhood and destabilized Egypt; undercut allies like Jordan by failing to enforce his own “red line in Syria; invited Russia into Syria; signed a flawed agreement with Iran; and repeatedly sided against Israel.
“Despite their public protestations against President Trump’s decision, our relationship with our Arab allies remains the strongest it has been in years and our solidarity with Israel has been reaffirmed. President Trump made the right call. God Bless America!!”
“For millennia, Jerusalem has been the eternal capital of the State of #Israel. I’m proud to support @POTUS in reiterating U.S. policy & support for our ally, and in recognizing Israel’s right to exist.”
“I applaud President Trump for fulfilling his promise to recognize Jerusalem as the unquestionable capital of Israel.”
“I applaud @realDonaldTrump for recognizing that #Jerusalem is the capital of #Israel and beginning the process of moving the U.S. embassy there. Jerusalem has been, and always will be, the capital of the State of Israel.”
“I am pleased to see that President Trump kept his campaign promise to declare that the United States recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, as it has been for thousands of years. This important announcement protects the United States’ and Israel’s interests in the Middle East and abroad. I applaud the president for laying the groundwork to swiftly relocate the American embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This move will send a strong message to the world that Jerusalem is the legitimate capital of Israel.”
“When I visit with members of the Knesset, the Israeli Parliament, I go to Jerusalem. Both times I have met with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, we met in Jerusalem. And my meeting with President Reuven Rivlin, of Israel, was also in Jerusalem. Jerusalem is the seat of the Israeli government; it is the location of their Parliament building and the offices of the Prime Minister and President.
“It is the diplomatic right of any sovereign nation to choose where their nation’s capital is located; and, for 67 years, Israel has recognized Jerusalem as their capital. It is beyond time for the United States to embrace reality and formally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
“In 1995 Congress passed, by an overwhelming bi-partisan majority, an act to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and to move the United States Embassy to Jerusalem. I applaud President Trump for addressing this and formally recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.”
“Jerusalem is the eternal capital of the State of Israel and the Jewish people. I was proud to vote for the Jerusalem Embassy Act, which demonstrated Congress’ unified position that Jerusalem should be recognized as the capital of Israel, and today’s announcement is consistent with existing U.S. law. We must remain focused on the goal of two states for two peoples – the Jewish state of Israel and a Palestinian state – living side-by-side in peace, security, and mutual recognition. The Administration must focus its efforts on bringing both sides to the table, as only the parties themselves can agree to end this conflict.”
“Proud of @realDonaldTrump for moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem – thank you for taking the initiative on this Mr. President – you have our full support.”
“Today is a day of celebration for those of us who recognize the truth that #Jerusalem is the rightful capital of Israel. For groups like Hamas, this is just another excuse to cause violence & destruction that proves they are not ready to negotiate peace”
Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
“Today the President recognized a reality: Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. The House and Senate have on three separate occasions supported recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, including by enacting the Jerusalem Embassy Act in 1995 to move the United States embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. If acknowledging truth inspires violence, it is those who commit the violence, not the truth, that are at fault.”
“Every American embassy should be located in the capital of that country, and Jerusalem is the undivided capital of the State of Israel. Congress spoke loud and clear on this issue with the overwhelming passage of the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995, which states that Israel, as a sovereign nation, has the right to designate its own capital and our embassy should be located in that capital. I welcome President Trump’s historic announcement today, which both fulfills a key campaign promise and recognizes a longstanding reality. Furthermore, this announcement signals a new era in relations with our Israeli partners – relations that were significantly strained by the Obama administration. Make no mistake, the controversial and sensitive process ahead will come with its challenges. I urge President Trump to be mindful of this as he moves forward with the relocation of our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and ensure U.S. national security interests remain a top priority. I also urge all parties in the region to exercise restraint as we move forward, and trust that the United States, as the president highlighted, remains deeply committed to lasting peace in the region.”
“I commend today’s decision by @POTUS to move the US embassy to Jerusalem. It not only enforces long-standing federal law but also sends a strong message of support to one of America’s most sacred allies.”
“By relocating our embassy to Jerusalem, President Trump is doing what our country should have done two decades ago: fulfill our promise to our ally and formally recognize the Jewish State of Israel’s undivided capital. Jerusalem is our ally’s capital, so that’s where our embassy should be. I applaud the President’s decision, which sends a strong and clear message to the international community that we are beginning a new chapter in our alliance, one in which America keeps our promises towards Israel and doesn’t waffle about where our true allegiance lies. The era of reneged commitments is finally over.”
“What a powerful statement it is, on the 50th anniversary of reunification, for President Trump to recognize Jerusalem as the true, undivided Capital of Israel. I applaud the President for this decision and for delivering on yet another key promise he made during his campaign.”
Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY)
“Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and I’m pleased that the United States is finally acknowledging that fact. Israel, as a sovereign nation, determined its capital as Jerusalem. The United States, as its close ally and friend, should recognize this history and sovereignty. I now look forward to the U.S. Embassy moving from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. The Administration must also continue efforts to further a two state solution for two peoples living side by side in peace, security, and mutual recognition.”
“I support President Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This recognition is long overdue. Hoosiers agree that Israel is our most important ally in the region, and President Trump’s decision reaffirms our commitment to stand with the Jewish State.”
“Today, for the first time, the United States has officially recognized what so many have known for years, that Jerusalem is the rightful capital of Israel. Israel is one of America’s closest friends and allies. I appreciate President Trump’s decision, and reiterate my desire to see a peaceful way forward for the region.”
“#Jerusalem has been Israel’s capital since the time of King David. Jerusalem’s legislature and courts are in Jerusalem. Why should we continue to pretend otherwise? Would we be okay with other countries insisting our capital was somewhere other than Washington? President Trump’s common sense decision is grounded in reality.”
“The historical capital of Israel has long been Jerusalem. It is about time the United States recognizes this and places our embassy where it belongs- in Jerusalem.”
Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-NY)
“Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and Jerusalem should be the home of our embassy. That’s my belief, it’s consistent with U.S. law, and I support the decision to recognize it as official U.S. policy. I also support a two-state solution reached through direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, and we need to know that this administration is working in a serious, coherent way to help bring about lasting peace.”
“#Israel is 1 of our most impt allies. We’re dedicated 2 its security & freedom. As a Christian, Israel is sacred 2 me as it is 2 many Americans. Congrats 2 @realDonaldTrump on recognizing Jerusalem as capital of Israel. Past presidents used words on this subject Trump uses action”
“Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and the United States embassy rightfully should reside there. While presidents from both parties have called for this recognition of Israel, President @realDonaldTrump is the first president to take action.”
“The President’s decision today is a recognition of existing U.S. law that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and that the U.S. embassy should ultimately be located in the capital. There is no debate that the Jewish people have a deep-rooted religious, cultural and historic tie to Jerusalem, and today’s decision reaffirms that connection. The fact is that Jerusalem – an ancient and holy city to all three monotheistic faiths – will remain the capital of the Jewish state in any iteration of a negotiated two-state solution. Today’s decision does not preclude our shared goal of two states for two peoples to be negotiated between the parties themselves. Now is the time for urgent progress towards the President’s stated objective of achieving a real and lasting peace.”
“I applaud the decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and to begin the process of moving the US Embassy to this holy city. Today’s announcement is the type of clear leadership that is so vital for the region.
“In the past year international organizations, including and especially at the United Nations, have passed numerous resolutions denying the three-thousand-year-old bond between the Jewish people and Jerusalem and have dedicated vast resources to discriminatorily and outrageously target Israeli and American companies operating in areas such as the Old City. Recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital repairs a longtime injustice and sends a clear signal to the world that despite their attempts to rewrite history and wage economic warfare against the Jewish State, the United States stands with Israel.
“I look forward to working with the Administration as it facilitates our embassy’s historic move and hope to soon visit our new Embassy in Jerusalem, Israel’s eternal and undivided capital.”
“Recognizing Israel’s true capital is a vital demonstration of our commitment to a strong ally. Thank you for keeping your promise Mr. President. My statement below.”
“It is a longstanding fact that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. I am proud to see the President make this monumental and historic recognition. The people of Jerusalem are remarkable and they have demonstrated over the last 50 years, since reunification, that people of all faiths are welcome and protected in this capital city.”
Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA), House Foreign Affairs Committee
“I welcome the administration’s decision to recognize Israel’s self-identified capital. Sovereign nations have a right to determine their seat of government, and our close ally Israel should not be treated differently. Relocating the U.S. Embassy should be done carefully, and in a way that advances our national security interests in a dangerous and unstable region. The president wants peace between Israel and the Palestinians. And so do I. But no solution can be imposed. Actors in the region must want to put conflict and bloodshed in the past. That’s why the House passed the Taylor Force Act yesterday, telling the PA that their abhorrent pay to slay policy must stop. The administration’s recent engagement with key players is encouraging, and I hope it grows in the coming weeks. A lot of difficult work lies ahead.”
“This is a day that is long overdue. Jerusalem has been, and always will be, the eternal, undivided capital of the State of Israel. The city’s status as the religious epicenter of Judaism is an historical fact—not a matter of debate. Today’s announcement is a recognition of reality that in no way inhibits efforts to reach a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. I commend President Trump for taking this important action, and for exploring next steps to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.”
Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA)
“By Recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, @POTUS has shown we’re willing to back up our allies”
“Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. It has been the eternal capital of the Jewish people for more than three thousand years, and since 1948 the capital of the Jewish state. These are facts that cannot be denied. Today’s announcement does not & should not change US commitment to a real and sustainable peace. Only through direct negotiations between Israel & the Palestinians will a viable two-state solution be achieved with two peoples living side-by-side in peace, security & prosperity.”
“#Jerusalem is the eternal capital of the Jewish people and the only capital the State of Israel has ever had. I expect the Administration to acknowledge this tomorrow.”
“Today @POTUS @realDonaldTrump made clear the United States stands with our strongest ally in the Middle East. #Jerusalem is the true capital of Israel and should be recognized as such.”
“Today, President Trump took a decisive and historic step toward restoring American leadership in the world,” said U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today. “By rightfully recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the United States has chosen to lead on principle. Jerusalem is the eternal capital of the Jewish people and has been for three millennia. The Jewish State has waited 70 years for international recognition of this fact and for 50 years has ensured religious liberty in all of Jerusalem, including international access to the city’s religious and cultural heritage. “With this recognition, our country boldly confirms the unshakeable ties that bind us in friendship and common purpose to our indispensable ally, the State of Israel. I stand prepared to use my voice and vote in the House of Representatives to support the President’s commitment to comply with the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 and relocate the United States Embassy to Israel to Jerusalem as soon as possible. I co-sponsored the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998–which passed Congress–that set aside funding of the construction of a U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. I support President Trump’s new approach to achieving a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and his call for all regional leaders to break from the past and chart a new path toward enduring peace. Just yesterday, the House voted to pass the Taylor Force Act, which would bar U.S. assistance to the Palestinian Authority unless they immediately stop paying huge amounts of money directly to Palestinian terrorists and their families–‘pay to slay’–who murder American and Israeli citizens.”
“President Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel has been affirmed by Congress more than once. This foreign policy decision reinforces our commitment to one of our strongest allies in the region. I look forward to continuing to develop a policy to bring peace to the region.”
“When I traveled to Israel in August, I met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and had a discussion about moving the United States embassy to Jerusalem. The city is at the core of the nation’s foundation and history. President Trump’s decision to move our embassy is the right one. I will continue to support and defend our decades-old friendship and strengthen our alliance.”
Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY)
“I support the decision recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and moving our embassy to this ancient city. Jerusalem has been the focal point of Jewish religious devotion and has already been reaffirmed by Congress as the Israeli capital. It remains a beacon of religious freedom and safeguards the rights of Jews, Muslims and Christians to visit and pray at their respective holy sites. We must continue to work toward a durable and sustainable peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians resulting in two states – a Jewish, democratic state living side by side next to a demilitarized Palestinian state, in peace and security.”
Rep. Clauida Tenney (R-NY)
“President Trump’s declaration officially recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and decision to move the United States embassy to Jerusalem is an important step forward in recognizing the sovereignty and undeniable legitimacy of our closest ally in the region. It is a clear statement that the United States and our allies will not be ruled by political threats and violent terror.
“The capital of the Jewish people for millennia, Jerusalem today is a vibrant metropolis where the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion or race, are respected. Moving the embassy of the United States to Jerusalem is simply put, the right thing to do. Just as Israel’s embassy to the United States is in our capital, so too should our embassy be located in theirs.
“In 1995, Congress passed the Jerusalem Embassy Act by an overwhelming, bipartisan vote. This legislation states that the United States embassy in Israel should be established in Jerusalem. Over 20 years later, today President Trump showed bold leadership on this vital issue.”
Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL)
“My longstanding view is that Jerusalem is and will remain the undivided capital of Israel, and it should remain a city accessible to people of all faiths. I strongly believe that we must continue to work toward a two state solution that achieves two states for two peoples. We must work toward a day where the entire world recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and that can be achieved through final status negotiations. I remain as committed as ever to safeguarding Israel’s future as a Jewish and democratic state, at peace with its neighbors, with Jerusalem as its undisputed capital.”
“With today’s announcement, we are finally officially stating what is a well-known fact. Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, and we are finally adhering to our own decades-old law in relocating our embassy there as well. I applaud the President for moving forward with this course of action. Israel is an incredible nation and our strongest ally in the Middle East. This is truly remarkable news…Our commitment to Israel is unwavering. Jerusalem is the true seat of the government of Israel.”
“I applaud the decision by @POTUS to move the US Embassy in Israel to #Jerusalem. This step is important to our relationship with our ally Israel. An important part of peace between Israel and Palestine is Israel’s right to exist, its self-determination, and its rightful identity.”
“I commend @POTUS for his unwavering support of Israel & his decision to recognize Jerusalem as its capital. For 22 years, the United States has acknowledged it as such, and now is the time to show the world that our country always back its allies and will always stand with Israel.”
“America’s bond with Israel is unique, and its strength is the foundation of American leadership in the Middle East. The president’s announcement that our embassy will be located in Jerusalem strengthens that bond, and I am grateful to see him honor another one of his campaign commitments. The people of Israel know they have an ally in the White House.”
“I applaud President Trump on his decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel. I strongly believe Jerusalem is the indisputable, undivided capital of the Jewish State. Moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem is an important next step in protecting Israel’s sovereignty and security and strengthening the bond between our two nations. The U.S. has no greater ally and strategic partner than Israel. As the center of the Israeli government, as well as the nation’s unquestionable capital, it is absolutely imperative that this move is initiated and completed in earnest.”