US Embassy to Celebrate Independence Day in Jerusalem for 1st Time

  • 5/9/2019
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The US Embassy in Israel has decided to hold its annual Fourth of July celebrations in Jerusalem, according to diplomatic sources in Tel Aviv. The sources said the decision carries great significance and further cements Washington’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and its decision to move the embassy to it. Independence anniversary celebrations have in the past years been held at the Ambassador’s residence in Herzliya in the presence of 2,000 guests. This year, the embassy will invite over 3,000 persons, including top Israeli officials from the government, the presidency, security services and others. In 2018, the embassy’s decision to hold it in Jerusalem was met with objections. US Ambassador David Friedman insisted on moving the celebrations to Jerusalem this year as a reflection of the new US policy set by President Donald Trump. The embassy in Israel is still operating from its old headquarters in Tel Aviv, but Friedman has an office at the US consulate in West Jerusalem. The consulate will become the Ambassador’s permanent residence. Construction companies are working at a high pace to complete the new building of the embassy on a land south of West Jerusalem. Earlier, the Israeli Foreign Ministry announced that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, known for his close friendship with Israel, will arrive in Tel Aviv next month, accompanied by a delegation, to hold a ceremonial meeting in solidarity with Israel. DeSantis is scheduled to meet with President Reuven Rivlin, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials. He will also sign three economic cooperation agreements. The Ministry asserted the importance of the relationship between Israel and Florida, which has a population of 6 million, adding that the visit will further consolidate ties.

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