Bill would move US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem

A bill introduced in the U.S. House would move the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. The Capital of the State of Israel Act is sponsored by a bipartisan group of five representatives, the Israeli news agency Ynetnews reported Saturday. They say the move would show U.S. support for Israel and would save money. The bill recommends the United States convert the Tel Aviv Embassy to a consulate or sell it. The sponsors are Trent Franks, R-Ariz., Brad Sherman, D-Calif., Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., Gene Green, D-Texas, and Juan Vargas, D-Calif. They cite both political and religious reasons for the move. "For historical, biblical and moral reasons, we are committed to the unity of Jerusalem as Israel's undivided capital with no waivers and no caveats," Lamborn said. "Our unflinching support is especially crucial at this critical hour of turbulence throughout the region." Congress passed legislation in 1995 ordering the move but allowing the president to grant a waiver every six months.