Israel Matzav

Congress wants to sell US embassy building in Tel Aviv, move embassy to Jerusalem

A bipartisan group of representatives has introduced a bill to sell the US embassy's beachfront property in Tel Aviv, which has a market value of $100 million or more, and move the embassy to Jerusalem (Hat Tip: MFS - The Other News).

The bill, which is being sponsored by Representatives Trent Franks (AZ-08), Brad Sherman (CA-30), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Gene Green (TX-29), Juan Vargas (CA-51), is now being circulated among members of Congress.

The initiative is unique because it recommends that the United States government either repurpose the current Embassy property in Tel Aviv to a consulate, or sell the property, which has the potential to garner an estimated hundred million dollars at market value.
"The United States was the first nation to recognize Israel's sovereignty, a mere 11 minutes after the new state was formed in 1948. Today, 65 years later, Israel remains a uniquely precious ally. Just as the United States has assisted the Jewish people in restoring their ancient state, it is only fitting that we lead the way in recognizing Jerusalem for what it is: the undivided, eternal capital of Israel," said Congressman Tent Franks.
“It is long overdue for the US government to relocate our embassy to Israel’s capital, Jerusalem,” said Congressman Brad Sherman. “Congress overwhelmingly passed legislation to move the US embassy to Jerusalem in 1995. It is time to follow through on our commitment.”
“For historical, biblical and moral reasons, we are committed to the unity of Jerusalem as Israel's undivided capital with no waivers and no caveats," said Congressman Doug Lamborn. "Our unflinching support is especially crucial at this critical hour of turbulence throughout the region."

Jerusalem and Tel Aviv are 40 miles apart and there really is no justification for an embassy in one and a consulate in the other (find me another country in the world where the US has diplomatic installations that close together). But hey - $100 million is just another Obama golf vacation and he's not going to tick off his Muslim allies to save a drop in the bucket like that. 

Labels: Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, US embassy in Tel Aviv

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 6:16 PM