On March 4, 2019, the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem will merge with the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem to form a unified diplomatic mission. This merger follows an announcement made by Secretary Pompeo on October 18, 2018, regarding the combination of these missions and their respective teams.
The U.S. Department of State has assured that there will be full continuity of diplomatic activity and consular services during and after this transition. The embassy will continue performing all diplomatic and consular functions previously handled by the separate entities. Additionally, a new unit named the U.S. Embassy Palestinian Affairs Unit (PAU) will operate from the historic Agron Road location in Jerusalem to engage in various activities such as reporting, outreach, and programming in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as well as interactions with Palestinians in Jerusalem.
Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino emphasized that "our State Department and interagency teams on the ground do exceptional work every day," representing U.S. interests to diverse audiences while reflecting their views back to Washington. He stated that this critical work would be enhanced with a larger team following the merger.
The decision for this merger is part of global efforts aimed at increasing efficiency and effectiveness in diplomatic engagements and operations. It does not indicate any change in U.S. policy regarding Jerusalem, the West Bank, or the Gaza Strip. The United States maintains its position of taking no stance on final status issues like boundaries or borders; these remain subjects for negotiation between involved parties.
"The Administration remains fully committed to efforts to achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace that offers a brighter future to Israel and the Palestinians," reaffirmed Palladino.