Kushner slams Iran deal, says peace with Palestinians still possible

Jared Kushner is addressing the US embassy ceremony.

“I am so proud to be here today in Jerusalem, the eternal heart of the Jewish people,” says Kushner to applause, calling it a “historic occasion.”

He thanks the attendees.

In December, Trump and the United States chose to “finally recognize the truth: That Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. He also declared that we would soon move our embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and just five months later, we are standing on these grounds.”

Other American presidents “have backed down from their pledge,” says Kushner. But not Trump. “When President Trump makes a promise, he keeps it.”

“Today also demonstrates American leadership,” adds Kushner, saying Washington has “shown the world, once again, that the United States can be trusted.”

The United States embassy move has shown it “will do what’s right, and so we have.”

“Our special bond in the envy of nations around the world,” he says of US-Israel ties, noting the shared values of freedom, rights, and democracy.

He says Trump “kept another promise” in exiting the “dangerous, flawed and one-sided Iran deal.” That statement is met with extensive clapping.

He berates Iran’s “aggression” and says “previously unimaginable alliances are emerging” in the region as a result of Tehran.

Kushner, a peace envoy, stresses the US administration is still committed to a peace deal.

The administration’s Jerusalem recognition and embassy move “do not reflect a departure to our commitment to lasting peace,” says Kushner. The challenges to peace are “numerous” but the “determination” of leaders in the region “remains steadfast.”

He also condemns Palestinian violence, amid ongoing riots on the Gaza border.

“Those provoking violence are part of the problem and not part of the solution.”

“The United States recognizes the sensitivity surrounding Jerusalem,” he continues. “Jerusalem must remain a city that brings people of all faiths together,” says Kushner. Israel has been a “responsible custodian” of Jerusalem since 1967, he adds.

“I believe that peace is within reach if we dare to believe that the future could be different than the past.”

“It will not be an easy road,” but peace can be achieved if we “dream big,” he says.

“The United States is prepared to support a peace agreement in every way we can. We believe it is possible for both sides to gain more than they give – to reach an agreement where all can live in peace, safe from violence, free from fear, and able to pursue their dreams.”