In a letter sent to dozens of parliament heads around the world, Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein urged his counterparts to “endorse the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital by your country and by the international community.” Edelstein wrote that US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement that the United States recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel was a “just step, one consistent with the historical record.”
The following is the full text of the letter:
“Dear Colleague,
“Last week, President Trump announced that the United States recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel, and that preparations are underway for the relocation of the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
“This is a just step, one consistent with the historical record. For three thousand years, Jerusalem has been the political capital and spiritual center of the Jewish People. This is where King David established the seat of his dynasty and where Solomon built his Temple—the focus of centuries of Jewish prayer from all corners of the Diaspora. Today, Jerusalem is a city holy to three major religions with a large, diverse population that reflects its long history. With sacred sites open by law to believers and non-believers alike, it is a modern city intimately tied to its glorious past.
“Jerusalem is the only capital that the State of Israel has had since gaining independence nearly seventy years ago, and its status is grounded in legislation. Moreover, this city is the seat of Israel’s government, the home of most major national institutions, and the hub of the country’s diplomatic activity. These are realities that the international community has chosen to ignore.
“The announcement by President Trump offers us the opportunity to begin a new chapter in the way the international community relates to this special city. I urge you, as the speaker of your parliament, to take action in the realm of your capacities and to stand up for the historical record. Endorse the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital by your country and by the international community.
“On this occasion, I send my warmest wishes from Jerusalem for a new year filled with the blessings of friendship and peace.”