US Jerusalem decision has 'sparked fresh conflict'

By Muhammet Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA (AA) - U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital has “lit the wick of a new conflict in the Middle East,” Parliamentary Speaker Ismail Kahraman said Monday.

Addressing lawmakers as they prepared to consider the 2018 budget, Kahraman described the decision as “lawless and unilateral.”

Last week’s announcement in Washington, which included the pledge to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, triggered demonstrations across the Muslim world.

“The decisions, which will cause a burst of anger between nations and increase grudges and hatred, will reveal outcomes that threaten the joint future of the humanity,” Kahraman said.

Jerusalem remains at the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict, with Palestinians hoping that East Jerusalem -- now occupied by Israel -- might serve as the capital of a future Palestinian state.