Abbas phones Macron over Trump's potential decision on Jerusalem

RAMALLAH, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Tuesday phoned on Tuesday his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron over U.S. intention to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, official Palestinian News Agency (WAFA) reported.

Abbas voiced his appreciation for France's efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region, WAFA said.

The Palestinian leadership has been reaching Arab, Islamic and international parties to intervene against the possible U.S. decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and move its embassy there.

Abbas' spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeinah said on Tuesday that the leadership is considering an urgent summit of the Arab League in case the U.S. takes such step.

"Such a dangerous move necessitates that everyone shoulders their responsibilities toward any encroachment on Jerusalem as the capital of the state of Palestine," WAFA said.

On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump's adviser Jared Kushner said Trump has not yet made a decision on the recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Media reports, however, said Trump is considering recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and may announce it on Wednesday.

In June, Trump issued an exceptional decision to keep the U.S. embassy in Tel Aviv, which is expected to expire this month, but it remains unclear if the U.S. president will renew his decision or not.

The issue of moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem is considered by Palestinians as a provocation and destruction of the peace process.

The latest round of peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians, brokered by the United States, lasted nine months and broke down in April 2014 with no tangible results. Enditem