Global Geopolitical Series: Pope urges to maintain Jerusalem status quo

As a leaked intelligence tape suggested that Egypt is on board with president Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and a worldwide recognition looks increasingly likely, the head of the Christian faith, Pope Francis has once again urged to maintain the Jerusalem status quo. On Monday, addressing ambassadors from more than 180 countries Francis said, “We reiterate our call to abide by UN resolutions and to respect the joint commitments over the status of Jerusalem, which is sacred to Christians, Jews, and Muslims.” Despite President Trump’s threat of repercussions, except the United States, all 14-member of the United Nations’ Security Council (UNSC) voted in favor of an Egyptian resolution that called on countries to refrain from following U.S. lead in recognizing Jerusalem as Israel capital. On 21 December, the UN General Assembly overwhelming adopted a Turkish-sponsored resolution rejecting Trump’s move by a vote of 128-9, with 35 abstentions.

Pope Francis also urged a two-state solution of the Israelis and Palestinians saying, “Establishing a dialogue and maintaining the negotiations, despite all the difficulties, are the best way in order to make two nations live in peace.”