Uzbek President backs recognition of East Jerusalem as Palestinian capital

27 January 2023

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on Friday threw his support behind the recognition of East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine, becoming the latest leader to wade into the decades-old conflict.

'Historic injustice'

In a statement released by his office, Mirziyoyev said that the recognition of East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital was "a historic necessity" to correct a "historic injustice".

Mirziyoyev's statement comes at a time of heightened tensions between Israelis and Palestinians, following a series of deadly attacks in Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.

International support

Mirziyoyev's statement has been welcomed by the Palestinian leadership, with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressing his gratitude for Uzbekistan's support.

The international community has long called for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine and West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Complex issue

However, the issue of Jerusalem is a complex one, with both Israelis and Palestinians claiming the city as their capital.

Israel has occupied East Jerusalem since the 1967 war, and has since annexed the area, a move that is not recognized by the international community.

Long-standing conflict

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been ongoing for decades, with no end in sight.

The conflict has claimed the lives of thousands of people, and has displaced millions more.

Need for peace

The international community has called for an end to the violence and for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Mirziyoyev's statement is a reminder of the need for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.