Theresa May calls Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital 'unhelpful for peace prospects'

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Theresa May has said she regards the decision by the United States to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel as unhelpful to prospects for peace in the region.

The Prime Minister said she disagrees with Donald Trump's move and reiterated Britain's position that the city should be the shared capital of Israel and Palestine in a negotiated two-state solution.

In a White House speech, Mr Trump said his move "marks the beginning of a new approach to conflict between Israel and the Palestinians" and that it was in America's interests.

The President described the move as a "long overdue step" after previous US presidents failed to fulfil pledges to make the change.

Ms May said in a statement: "We disagree with the US decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem and recognise Jerusalem as the Israeli capital before a final status agreement. We believe it is unhelpful in terms of prospects for peace in the region. The British Embassy to Israel is based in Tel Aviv and we have no plans to move it.

“Our position on the status of Jerusalem is clear and long-standing: it should be determined in a negotiated settlement between the Israelis and the Palestinians, and Jerusalem should ultimately be the shared capital of the Israeli and Palestinian states. In line with relevant Security Council Resolutions, we regard East Jerusalem as part of the Occupied Palestinian Territories."

She urged the White House to "now bring forward detailed proposals for an Israel-Palestinian settlement".

“To have the best chances of success, the peace process must be conducted in an atmosphere free from violence. We call on all parties to work together to maintain calm,” she added.