On this day: in 1950: Jerusalem becomes the capital of Israel

In 1950, Jerusalem became the capital of Israel. Now, other countries are slowly starting to recognize it as such.

JANUARY 23, 2023 04:02

Updated: JANUARY 23, 2023 11:16

A view of the Machon Lev campus in Jerusalem, home to a number of the capital’s top start-ups, including AI-company Flycomm. (photo credit: MACHON LEV) — A view of the Machon Lev campus in Jerusalem, home to a number of the capital’s top start-ups, including AI-company Flycomm.

(photo credit: MACHON LEV)

On 23 January 1950, the Knesset voted that Jerusalem should be the capital of Israel.

The declaration was passed 60-2 declaring, according to Israeled.org, “Whereas with establishment of the state of Israel, Jerusalem once more becomes the capital; Whereas practical difficulties which caused the Knesset and government institutions to be temporarily housed elsewhere have now for the most part been removed and the government is carrying out the transfer of its institutions to Jerusalem; The Knesset expresses the wish that construction of the seat of the government and Knesset in Jerusalem proceed speedily on the site allotted by the government for this purpose.”

Since the declaration, countries have slowly moved their embassies to the Israeli capital. There are now 4 embassies in Jerusalem and 24 consulates. Many countries are also in the process of opening embassies in Jerusalem or are openly considering the move.

Here is a list of the current countries with embassies in Jerusalem: