US State Department: US to open Jerusalem embassy in May

The US plans to open its new embassy in Jerusalem in May, which will coincide with Israel’s 70th anniversary, announced the Department of State on Friday.

The announcement came months after US President Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and said he would move the US Embassy there, dismaying Palestinians who claim the eastern part of the city and angering Arab states across the region.

A view of Jerusalem's Old City.

"We are excited about taking this historic step, and look forward with anticipation to the May opening," said US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert in a statement.

The embassy in Jerusalem will be gradually expanded in existing consular facilities in the Arnona neighborhood, according to Nauert.

The official has also mentioned that the search for a site for our permanent Embassy to Israel has already begun, adding the planning and construction of it will be a longer-term undertaking.

US Vice President Mike Pence (L) shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during their meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem, Jan. 22, 2018.

A May opening is earlier than expected－US Vice President Mike Pence told the Israeli parliament last month that the move would take place by the end of 2019.

On the same day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the US announcement as "a great day for the people of Israel".

Israeli Minister of Transportation and Intelligence Israel Katz has also responded to the decision on his Twitter, calling it “the most just and correct move”.

(CGTN)