Romanian and Honduran leaders say they will recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital
The leaders of Romania and Honduras on Sunday announced that they will recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, following the lead of President Trump.
Romanian Prime Minister Viorica Dancila and Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez delivered their announcements at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s annual conference in Washington. The announcements were welcomed by Israeli politicians.
However, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, a government rival who’s in charge of the East European nation’s foreign policy, said the prime minister hadn’t consulted with him over the decision. He accused her of “total ignorance” of foreign policy.
The move is considered controversial as it goes against the rest of the European Union. Romania currently holds the bloc’s rotating presidency.
Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moved the U.S. Embassy to the city, a move that was applauded by Israel. Guatemala followed suit.
The move angered the Palestinians, who seek east Jerusalem as capital of a future state.
Most countries have embassies in Tel Aviv out of sensitivity over the contested city. The Palestinians, and most of the international community, say the city’s final status should be resolved in negotiations.
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