Trump to address Jerusalem embassy opening by video

Sounds like Trump won’t be physically present at the opening (although his daughter will).

http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/trump-address-jerusalem-embassy-opening-video-716095125

US President Donald Trump will address around 800 US and Israeli dignitaries at the ceremonial opening of the American embassy in Jerusalem by video on Monday, the US ambassador said.

“People have been working literally around the clock in getting ready for our opening dedication ceremony on Monday. We’ll be ready,” said David Friedman.

“The president, from my side of things, will be addressing the audience by video,” he said.

It was not immediately clear from Friedman’s comment, on a call with reporters, whether Trump would speak via a live videolink or a pre-recorded address.

Trump announced in December that the US would move its embassy to Jerusalem and recognise the city as the capital of Israel.

In Israel the decision was warmly welcomed but it caused dismay amongst Palestinians and in many world capitals.

Only Romania, Paraguay and Guatemala have announced similar moves since Trump’s decision.

The Israeli army said it would almost double the number of troops surrounding the Gaza Strip and in the occupied West Bank to tackle Palestinian protests against the US embassy opening.

Three additional infantry brigades will be deployed next week, two around the Gaza Strip and one in the West Bank, army spokesman Jonathan Conricus told reporters on Saturday.

WarSclerotic