Jerusalem Mayor Hosts Global Diplomats, US Envoy Announces New Embassy Complex

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and his wife hosted an unprecedented Sukkot reception for ambassadors and senior diplomats from dozens of countries on Sunday at Saphra Square. Among the attendees were the U.S. Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, as well as representatives from Russia, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, the Vatican, Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, South Korea, Argentina, Chile, Georgia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Zambia, and South Sudan, alongside deputy ambassadors from India and Greece.

U.S. Ambassador David Friedman delivered remarks, emphasizing Jerusalem's unique character and praising Mayor Lion's work in balancing the city's historical legacy with its future. Friedman also revealed a significant development regarding U.S. assets in the capital, announcing the finalization of an agreement to purchase property for a new, permanent U.S. embassy complex. "This is more than just a building, it is the commitment of the United States to make a permanent mark in this city, so that there is no way that in the future someone will try to move us from here," Friedman stated, underscoring the U.S. commitment to Jerusalem.

Mayor Lion welcomed the international guests, reiterating that "Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, this is a historical fact." He noted that nine countries have already established their embassies in the city and expressed hope that more would follow. Lion described the Sukkah as representing a Jerusalem that is "open, welcoming, and diverse," and concluded with a prayer for peace for Jerusalem, Israel, and the entire world.