Presidential Message on the Eighth Anniversary of Recognizing Jerusalem as the Capital of the State of Israel

On December 6, 2017, during my first term in office, I proudly signed a proclamation to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and to relocate the United States Embassy to that marvelous city-a transformative step forward in the pursuit of peace in the Middle East. Today, 8 years later, my Administration renews its commitment to ushering in a new era of peace, prosperity, and stability in the region and all around the world.

For centuries, Jerusalem has been a sacred city of pilgrimage and worship for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, revered for its rich history and deep biblical origins. Since the establishment of the modern State of Israel in 1948, Jerusalem has served as its cultural and religious heart and the seat of its government. However, for decades, weak politicians refused to formally recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital-despite Congress voting to support the action-because they believed that moving our embassy would harm the cause of peace in the region. Yet delaying the recognition brought us no closer to a lasting peace agreement and showed that repeating the same approach to old challenges produces only the same failed results. In recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moving our embassy to that beautiful city, we acknowledged the rightful capital that stands at the heart of Israel's traditions, government, and heritage-and now we stand on the doorstep of one of the greatest diplomatic achievements in history as a strong, durable, and everlasting peace is emerging across the Middle East.

We further strengthened this commitment to peace during my first term by brokering the historic Abraham Accords, acknowledging Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and securing groundbreaking peace agreements between Israel and other Arab-Muslim countries.

Ever since I returned to office as the 47th President of the United States, my Administration has built upon these unprecedented achievements by once again leading the world with courage, strength, and resolve-setting the stage for lasting peace in regions around the world marked by long-standing conflict. I am proud to have led a significant peace agreement between the State of Israel and Hamas to end more than 2 years of profound suffering and loss, secure the full liberation of all hostages, and deliver humanitarian relief to the communities affected by this deadly war. This monumental agreement is a massive leap toward an enduring peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people-one that ensures security, brings stability, and offers hope for generations to come.

As President, I will always work tirelessly to bring peace to conflicts in every region and on every continent-and my Administration will never waver in promoting a foreign policy of peace through strength.