Jerusalem stands as one of the most contested cities in modern history, and the question of who made Jerusalem the capital of Israel touches on law, warfare, and diplomatic recognition. The status of the city did not emerge from a single decree but from a sequence of deliberate political decisions, military actions, and legislative acts spanning decades.
Historical Background of Jerusalem's Status
Before 1948, Jerusalem was a divided city under a British Mandate administration, with Jewish and Arab quarters sharing contested space. The 1947 United Nations partition plan proposed splitting the city, but the 1948 Arab-Israeli war left Jordan in control of the Old City and Israel in control of West Jerusalem. Each side viewed the city as central to its national narrative, setting the stage for future legal and political battles.
The Knesset Law and the Move of the Knesset
Legislating the Capital in 1950
In 1950, the Israeli Knesset passed the "Jerusalem, Capital of Israel Law," which declared Jerusalem as the complete and united capital of Israel. This law was part of a broader effort to anchor the government institutions in the city, even though practical realities kept the Knesset in Tel Aviv for several years due to security and logistical concerns. The law asserted sovereignty over the entire city, a claim that remains legally significant.
Relocating the Seat of Government
While the law declared Jerusalem as the capital, the Knesset did not physically move to Jerusalem until 1966. The decision to transfer government branches to the city was both symbolic and practical, reinforcing the legal declaration with physical presence. Ministries and the presidential residence followed in subsequent years, solidifying Jerusalem's role as the administrative and political center of the state.
The 1967 War and Annexation
The Six-Day War in 1967 dramatically altered Jerusalem's geography and political status. Israel captured East Jerusalem, including the Old City, and subsequently extended its municipal boundaries to incorporate the newly occupied areas. The government then passed legislation effectively annexing these territories, a move that remains unrecognized internationally but cemented physical control over the entire city.
International Reactions and Legal Status
The United Nations Security Council quickly condemned the annexation, and most countries maintain their embassies outside Jerusalem, recognizing Tel Aviv as the commercial and diplomatic capital. The U.S. decision in 20 recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and relocate its embassy in 2018 marked a major shift in international policy, encouraging other nations to reconsider their own positions amid ongoing peace process challenges.
Palestinian Claims and the Two-State Solution
Palestinian authorities claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state, viewing the Israeli measures as illegal under international law. The status of Jerusalem remains a core issue in negotiations, with both sides treating the city as non-negotiable in their national aspirations. Any resolution continues to hinge on complex discussions about sovereignty, borders, and the rights of communities within the city.
