US Embassy in Jordan warns of violent protests after Jerusalem move

The U.S. Embassy in Jordan on Wednesday warned of potentially violent demonstrations following President Trump’s move to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. 

In a security message, the embassy in Amman said it has urged U.S. personnel to keep their children home from school on Thursday and that American citizens in Jordan should “maintain a low profile.”

“Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news for updates,” the message reads.

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“Maintain a high-level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security and follow instructions from local authorities. Avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.”

Trump on Wednesday officially recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, bucking years of international norms and despite warnings from Arab and European leaders. The president said the United States plans to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, though he signed a six-month waiver putting the move aside.

World leaders including France’s President Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May were among those who quickly voiced their objections, saying the move could stymie the Middle East peace process.

The New York Times reported Wednesday afternoon that protests over the announcement have already begun in the Gaza Strip, the Hamas-controlled Palestinian territory.

Jerusalem, which is home to holy sites for all three major monotheistic faiths, is one of the most controversial subjects within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a years-long fight for which Trump has vowed to broker a solution.