Saudi warns U.S. embassy relocation to Jerusalem provokes sentiments of Muslims worldwide

RIYADH, Dec. 5, (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia expressed Tuesday its concern over media reports that the U.S. intends to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and relocate its embassy there, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The kingdom also reiterated its unwavering position on Jerusalem and its firm and lasting support for the Palestinian people in asserting their legitimate rights and establishing an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital, it said.

"This step, if taken, will be in contradiction of the principle of not affecting final status negotiations, and contradicts international resolutions that emphasize the historical and firm rights of the Palestinian people regarding Jerusalem," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement.

"It will also provoke the sentiments of Muslims throughout the world in light of the great importance and the pivotal status of Jerusalem," the source added.

The source also warned the U.S. administration of the grave consequences of such step.

"It will constitute an unwarranted shift in the United States' impartial position, at a time when the world looks to it to achieve the desired peace process," the source said.

The U.S. needs to "continue its efforts to achieve a just resolution for the Palestinian cause, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions," he noted. Enditem