Palestine describes plans by US to open its embassy in Jerusalem as a ‘provocation to Arabs’

Efforts and plans by the United States of America to open its embassy in Jerusalem next month has been described by Palestinians as a ‘provocation to Arabs’ around the world.

Reports say the move set to take place on May 15 was described as such because the proposed date marks Nakba Day and the mass displacement of Palestinians.

According to a senior Palestinian official, US decision to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem which has already prompted deadly protests in Palestine and solidarity rallies across the world is a “blatant violation of international law”.

Saeb Erekat, Palestine Liberation Organization secretary-general, said the result would be “the destruction of the two-state option”.

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However, Israel Katz, Israeli intelligence minister, thanked Trump for the announcement.

“There is no greater gift than that! The most just and correct move. Thanks friend!” Katz said in a tweet.

Plans by the US to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem has sparked protests from the Arab world and according Palestinian health officials at least 20 Palestinians have been killed in protests against the move since December 6, 2017.

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