The US today opened its embassy in Jerusalem under a controversial move by President Donald Trump, amid a bloodbath right on the border with Gaza where Israeli soldiers shot dead at least 41 Palestinians in clashes, in the deadliest escalation of violence since 2014.
Trump announced the decision to move the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in December, when he formally recognised the holy city as the capital of Israel, breaking away from decades of US neutrality on the sensitive issue.
"Today, we officially opened the United States embassy in Jerusalem. Congratulations. It's been a long time coming," President Trump said in a pre-recorded video at the US embassy opening here.
"Israel is a sovereign nation, with the right like any other sovereign nation, to designate its capital," he said.
The American leader said the US remains fully committed to facilitating a lasting peace agreement between Israel and Palestinians.
He said that his country supports status quo at the Temple Mount, a flashpoint of Israel-Palestinian conflict that houses the Western Wall (holiest site for the Jews) and the al-Aqsa mosque - known as Haram al-Sharif.
"This city and entire nation is a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Jewish people," Trump emphasised.
Later, the US President tweeted, "Big day for Israel. Congratulations!"
He also hailed Trump's decision to withdraw the US from the Iran nuclear deal, saying the President announced his intention to exit the "dangerous, flawed and one-sided Iran deal."