Israel army deploys reinforcements to West Bank after Trump Jerusalem move

The Israeli military said on Thursday it was deploying reinforcements to the occupied West Bank after US President Donald Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

“Upon the conclusion of the general staff’s situation assessment, it was decided that a number of battalions will reinforce in the area of (the West Bank), as well as combat intelligence and territorial defence,” the military said in a statement.


“In addition, more standby forces were defined, as part of the (military’s) readiness to possible developments.”

Palestinians protest over Trump move

Palestinian protesters burn pictures of US President Donald Trump at manger square in Bethlehem on Tuesday.

Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip have gone on strike and are taking to the streets in protest at US President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Israel has deployed hundreds of extra troops in the West Bank amid a rise in tensions.

Early reports say at least eight Palestinians have been hurt in clashes.
Mr Trump's announcement reversed decades of US policy on a highly sensitive issue for the region.
It has been met with worldwide dismay.

Palestinian protesters 

Many of Washington's closest allies have said they disagree with the move, and both the UN Security Council and the Arab League will meet in the coming days to decide their response.


There are fears the announcement could lead to a renewed outbreak of violence. The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas has already called for a new intifada, or uprising.

What other reaction has there been?

• Saudi Arabia, an ally of the US, called the new policy "a flagrant provocation to Muslims"
• Hamas leader Ismail Haniya said recognition crossed "all red lines"
• China warned against escalating tensions in the Middle East
• Jordan's King Abdullah said the decision would "undermine efforts to resume the peace process"
• Egypt's President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi urged Mr Trump "not to complicate the situation in the region"
• Turkey called for a summit of Muslim countries in December to discuss the developments
• Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said "Muslims must stand united against this major plot"

AFP/BBC