Israeli mayor of Jerusalem claims to be talking with US officials over embassy move

The Israeli mayor of Jerusalem claimed on Monday that he is holding “serious” talks with US officials regarding the relocation of the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, it has been reported.

“I am holding talks with government officials in the US and I know that they are serious about their intention,” revealed Nir Barakat. He did not name any of the US officials to whom he claims to have been speaking. “The Americans have various properties in Jerusalem that could serve as a solution and be used as an embassy,” he added.

According to Anadolu news agency, Barakat understands that the relocation could not be carried out overnight; that it will take time.

US President Donald Trump pledged during his electoral campaign that he will move the American embassy to Jerusalem. However, on Monday, White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters that there are currently “no decisions” on the relocation of the US embassy in Israel. Talks to move the diplomatic headquarters, the spokesman added, are in their “very early stages.”