Congressman Matt Gaetz Issues Statement on Opening of American Embassy in Jerusalem

Statement

Today, Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) issued the following statement in response to the opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem:

"Today is a tremendous day for Israel and for the United States. By officially moving the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, America has sent a powerful message that we stand with Israel, our closest ally in the Middle East.

We recognize Jerusalem as Israel's eternal, undivided capital. We recognize this fact over the objections of those who wish to sow the seeds of discord and strife in the Holy Land. Sadly, the Palestinian-led violence and riots that erupted today have shown the truth: the Palestinian Authority's stated desire for peace is nothing more than empty talk.

The Jerusalem Embassy Act was signed into law in 1995 by President Clinton. This bill, which required the U.S. Embassy in Israel to be moved to Jerusalem by 1999, passed through Congress with widespread bipartisan support -- including several current senators who now oppose the move.

Since 1995, presidents and presidential candidates of both parties have pledged to move the embassy to Jerusalem, but none of them delivered. President Trump did.

Jerusalem is the capital of Israel -- yet until today, our embassy was in Tel Aviv. This was disrespectful, dismissive, and wrong. It sent the message that Israel could not designate its own capital city. By moving our embassy, the Palestinian Authority, and others who deny Jerusalem -- and deny Israel's existence -- must realize that their days anti-Semitic hatred are over. It is time for them to become honest partners in peace. I applaud President Trump for his bold action, and for honoring our deep, true friendship and partnership with Israel," said Rep. Gaetz.

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