US vice president Mike Pence has defended Donald Trump’s move to declare Jerusalem the capital of Israel, a decision that has touched off uneasiness among Arab nations on his first tour of the region. “The United States of America is deeply committed to restarting the peace process in the Middle East,” Mr Pence said before departing for Jordan. He said he would be “delivering that message in Jordan, delivering that message in Israel, as well”. I have determined that it is time to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Any perceived threats to Muslim claims to the city, such as Mr Trump’s shift on Jerusalem, undermine its vital role there.

Source: Daily Mail January 21, 2018 06:22 UTC