“On behalf of the residents of Jerusalem, I thank you for your unprecedented support of our capital,” Barkat told Pence.
By: United with Israel Staff
Jerusalem’s Mayor Nir Barkat met on Tuesday with US Vice President Mike Pence and thanked him for his moving speech at the Knesset, in which he reiterated the Trump administration’s unwavering support for Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
“You proved that you are a true friend of the State of Israel and of Jerusalem. On behalf of the residents of Jerusalem, I thank you for your unprecedented support of our capital and for your commitment to bring the US Embassy home to Jerusalem in the coming year,” Barkat told Pence.
He further shared that that he had tears in his eyes during Pence’s speech at the Knesset.
Pence on Monday addressed Israel’s parliament, affirming the US’ support for the Jewish state, for Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and for Israel’s security.
In a history-laden and bible-infused keynote speech, Pence stated, “I am here to convey a simple message from the heart of the American people: The American people stand with Israel.”
He said the US is proud to have been the first country to recognize Israel as a Jewish state. President Donald Trump, he said, “righted a 70-year wrong” by acknowledging Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Pence said that the US will open its embassy in Jerusalem by the end of 2019, ahead of schedule.
Pence is considered one of the driving forces behind Trump’s historic recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Barkat presented Pence with a pair of cufflinks bearing the unique carvings of a menorah from 2,000 years ago, which was found in the City of David, in the Old City of Jerusalem.
It signifies the unbroken connection of the Jewish people to Jerusalem, Barkat explained.
The Vice President invited the Mayor to visit him at the White House.