BAGAN DATUK: The move to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel is a personal agenda by United States' President Donald Trump, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
"I feel that it's a personal agenda by (Trump). I think a lot of Americans did not agree with the move (to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital)," he said.
Zahid, who was speaking at a Christmas celebration dinner held in Simpat Empat here, said the strong objection by the Malaysian government and its people on the matter had nothing to do with religion.
"The move was protested not only by the Muslim community. The objection was echoed by the 128 countries which had also expressed their views at the United Nations.
"Masjid Al-Aqsa is located in Jerusalem and we also respect places of worship for the Jews and Christians there," he said.
Trump had recently announced a move to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. He also announced plans to relocate the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
The development sparked outcry and objections from the global community. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak had called for Muslims to stand in solidarity with Jerusalem and "to free it from the grip of the Zionist regime".
A solidarity rally for Jerusalem was also organised in Putrajaya last week, which drew thousands of people from various ehtnicities and religions.