Jared Kushner took another full step into the spotlight as President Trump’s lieutenant on Monday, not only cheering his father-in-law’s move to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel but bluntly stating that Trump is the first to keep the nation’s pledge to move the U.S. Embassy there.
Speaking at the opening, Kushner called Trump a promise-keeper.
“While presidents before him have backed down from their pledge to move the American Embassy once they were in office, this president delivered,” said Kushner.
For over 20 years, it has been American policy to recognize Jerusalem as the capital, but it wasn’t until today – and the leadership of President @realDonaldTrump – that we had an embassy in Jerusalem. pic.twitter.com/3wldl3BzPu
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) May 14, 2018
“Because when President Trump makes a promise, he keeps it,” he added.
Just last week Kushner scored a win for the president when a House committee overwhelmingly approved a prison reform measure he had pushed for on behalf of Trump.
And on Monday, he subbed for the president at the event in Jerusalem, sitting next to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Below are excerpts from Kushner’s speech in Israel that were distributed by the White House”
- On Israel — “Israel proves every day the boundless power of freedom. This land is the only land in the Middle East in which Jews, Muslims, and Christians, and people of all faiths participate and worship freely according to their beliefs. Israel protects women’s rights, freedom of speech, and the right of every individual to reach their God-given potential.”
- On Iran — “Iran’s aggression threatens the many peace-loving citizens throughout the region and the world. From Israel to Jordan to Egypt to Saudi Arabia and beyond, many leaders are fighting to modernize their countries and create better lives for their people. In confronting common threats, and in pursuit of common interests, previously unimaginable opportunities and alliances are starting to emerge.”
- On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict — “We believe, it is possible for both sides to gain more than they give – so that all people can live in peace – safe from danger, free from fear, and able to pursue their dreams.” And, “Jerusalem must remain a city that brings people of all faiths together.”
