Education Minister Naftali Bennett called on US President Donald Trump to "make history" by recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel Monday evening.
Minister Bennett spoke at the annual Moskowitz Prize for Zionism award ceremony, which was held at the Sultan's Pool in Jerusalem. "Today, an honored guest landed in the holy land at Ben Gurion Airport, the President of the United States, Donald Trump. When we shook hands I said, "Mr. President, welcome to Israel. It’s Jerusalem’s birthday, you know – 50 years. It's time to recognize Jerusalem." He said: "that's a good one," and then he turned to the Prime Minister and said again: "that's an idea."
Bennett spoke in English as he made his plea to President Trump.
"Donald Trump, today you visited the Western Wall, and touched the hearts of the Israeli people. I am sure your heart was touched as well. The Western Wall, Temple Mount, and the City of David are parts of Jerusalem that are not recognized to this very day by the United States of America and the rest of the world as the capital of Israel. This does not make sense," he said.
He elaborated: "Jerusalem has been our capital for 3,000 years, more than Paris for France, London for England, and Washington DC for the United States of America."
"On behalf of the Israeli people, left and right, on behalf of Jews across the world, we all call on you today: President Trump, make history. Recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital."