Erdogan hails Turkish nation's firm stance on Jerusalem in New Year's message

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday praised Turkish people for their “firm stance” on the Jerusalem issue in his New Year’s message.

In the video message issued by the Presidency, Erdogan said the Jerusalem issue is a “test” for all the Muslims around the world, stating:

Jerusalem issue has turned into a new test for Muslims and the oppressed people around the world, alongside our nation and the region

“I offer my gratitude to my people for their firm stance and sincere attitude on the issue,” the president added.

US President Donald Trump’s December 6 announcement of the change in US policy on Jerusalem sparked worldwide criticism.

On December 21, the UN General Assembly overwhelming adopted a Turkish-sponsored resolution rejecting Trump’s move by a vote of 128-9, with 35 abstentions.

Read: Israel gives Nauru $72,000 ‘gift’ ahead of UN vote on Jerusalem

While the international community has almost unanimously disagreed with Donald Trump’s announcement, reports suggest that the announcement was done with the pre-agreement of Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with the Saudi Arabia going as far as, allegedly, stating to the Palestinian President to accept a village on the outskirts of Jerusalem as the alternative Palestinian capital.

Since the announcement, Saudi Arabia’s royal court has sent notices to the nation’s media outlets to limit the airtime given to protests against Trump’s announcement.

Emboldened by Trump’s annoucement, Israeli housing Minister Yoav Galant announced plans to build 14,000 new settlement units in the occupied Jerusalem.

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