For many Jews, President Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel has validated Israel’s sovereign choice and strengthened its connection with the ancient capital of Kings David and Solomon. In the midst of many expressions of gratitude, questions linger, including these:
- Since 1949, Israel has proudly considered Jerusalem to be its capital, without appearing to need the prior approval of any nation. Why does Israel need such approval now?
- And if Israel feels it does need the approval of other nations, does it benefit by receiving support for its claim to Jerusalem from a president who frequently calls into question America’s commitment to allies (think of NATO, Paris Climate Agreement, Trans-Pacific Partnership, NAFTA)? As America becomes isolationist, does Israel not run the risk of becoming increasingly isolated? There are, after all, other countries in the world, some of them large, powerful, and influential. Does Israel not run the risk of seeing its claim to Jerusalem actually weakened by the President’s unilateral support?