US to move Jerusalem embassy before end of 2019, Mike Pence says

“Jerusalem is Israel's capital, and as such President Trump has directed the State Department to immediately begin preparations to move the United States embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem,” Mr Pence said.

“In the weeks ahead our administration will advance its plan to open the United States embassy in Jerusalem.

“And that United States embassy will open before the end of next year.”

Members of the Joint List coalition of Arab parties began shouting and holding up protest signs as Mr Pence began to speak.

They were swiftly moved out of the chamber by ushers.

Mr Pence responded to the disruption by remarking: “It is deeply humbling for me to stand before this vibrant democracy.”

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who has refused to meet Mr Pence, was in Brussels on Monday in an attempt to persuade European foreign ministers to recognise a Palestinian state based on 1967 borders.