U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the U.S. now recognises Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, overturning decades of official US policy.

Trump described the move as “a long overdue step” to advance the Middle East peace process.

The president’s announcement was met with celebrations by Israel and immediate fury from the Palestinians, who accused him of destroying any hope of a peace deal.

In a short speech delivered at the White House, Trump directed the state department to start making arrangements to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem – a process that officials say will take at least three years.

“My announcement today, marks the beginning of a new approach to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians,” Trump said.

Latest News

• MILITARY TRAINING FOR ALL ABOVE THE AGE OF 18
• PARTY LEADERS TO MEET TODAY
• 08 COVID FATALITIES ON SUNDAY; COUNTRY TOTAL RISES TO 264
• Protest to repatriate domestic worker from Jordan
• Construction workers injured after a mound of earth collapses in Thalangama