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Source: https://www.israelhayom.com/2021/10/22/the-battle-for-the-us-consulate-in-jerusalem/
The Battle over a U.S. Consulate for the Palestinians in Jerusalem
(Israel Hayom) Nadav Shragai - The U.S. has expressed its intention to open an American consulate in Jerusalem for the Palestinians in the coming weeks. Former Israel Foreign Ministry Director-General Dr. Dore Gold, currently president of the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, believes that Israel should clarify to the U.S. very openly what it can do and what it is not licensed to do. "If we are very clear about our real maneuvering space, the Americans will respect that." Gold defines the U.S. intention as "scandalous." "Israel cannot come to terms with threats to its sovereignty in Jerusalem." Moreover, "the Palestinians haven't changed their behavior and they are receiving a reward." "Coordination with the United States is something that is vital and important, but the story of the consulate is critical, and there is no room for compromise on this issue. It is something that is at the very soul of the state. We cannot compromise on our rights in all of Jerusalem." "The formal reality now is still such that from the perspective of the United States, Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. The United States has not withdrawn recognition of this. In this reality, we must be tenacious and manage this battle with the U.S. with prudence and sensitivity, but most of all, with tenacity and faith." "The opening of the consulate on Agron Road in the west of the city will not only undermine Israeli sovereignty in the capital, it will also result in a grave withdrawal from the status Israel achieved in West Jerusalem prior to 1967."