The UAE has expressed its deep regret and condemnation at the US administration's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation said in a statement on Thursday that such unilateral decisions are contrary to legitimate international resolutions and will not change the legal status of the holy city as under occupation.
"[The decision] is a complete defiance of the historic and permanent rights of the Palestinian people in Jerusalem, guaranteed by the relevant international resolutions and recognised by the international community," the statement read.
The ministry expressed its concern about the repercussions of US President Donald Trump's decision, saying it would provoke the feelings of Muslims around the world, in light of Jerusalem’s pivotal stature and importance to Islam.
It also warned the resolution would have a negative impact on the future of the peace process between Palestine and Israel.
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Read more:
[ Palestinians warn new intifada possible as Trump recognises Jerusalem as Israel capital ]
[ Experts react to Trump’s Jerusalem decision: A diplomatic upgrade or end of the peace process? ]
[ Beyond the Headlines: GCC summit and Trump's Jerusalem announcement ]
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On Tuesday, Ahmed Al Jarman, assistant minister for Human Rights and International Law at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said the decision would represent a fundamental change and unjustified bias in the neutral stance of the US, at the time when the world is looking forward to the US to help realise the aspirations of the peace process.
He reiterated the UAE’s firm stance on Jerusalem and its total and constant support for the Palestinian people to attain their legitimate rights and establish their Palestinian state and its capital in East Jerusalem.
