UN warns of spiralling violence as Security Council meets to discuss Jerusalem

UN envoy Nikolay Mladenov warned the Security Council members of a risk of 'violent escalation'.

1 min read

08 December, 2017

Tensions in Jerusalem after Trump announcement [Getty]

The decision, breaking with decades of US policy, has triggered concern and disapproval by allies

The UN Security Council opened an emergency meeting on Friday to discuss US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

The decision, breaking with decades of US policy, has triggered concern and disapproval by US allies.

UN envoy Nikolay Mladenov warned the Security Council members of a risk of "violent escalation".

"I am particularly concerned about the potential risk of violent escalation," Mladenov told the council members via video link from Jerusalem, at the start of their talks.

Asked what he expected to come from the UN meeting, one diplomat said: "nothing".

Another said the session would show US "isolation" on the issue.

Israel regards Jerusalem as its capital, a position nearly the entire world rejects saying its status should be determined in peace talks with the Palestinians.

Jerusalem is a key issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and many Arab leaders and others have reacted in anger.

Trump's move has been condemned worldwide and protests have been taking place globally including in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan. People are also due to hit the streets in London on Friday night outside the US embassy.