Germany warns of clashes in Jerusalem amid planned U.S. recognition

BERLIN - 6 December 2017: Germany is concerned that violent clashes could erupt in the Middle East following reports that U.S. President Donald Trump would recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, the Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

In an update of its travel advice for Israel and the Palestinian territories, the Foreign Ministry in Berlin said: "From December 6, 2017, there may be demonstrations in Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Violent clashes can not be ruled out."

The ministry advised German travellers in Jerusalem to closely monitor the situation via local media and avoid the affected areas.

Senior U.S. officials said on Tuesday that Trump will recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital on Wednesday and set in motion the relocation of the U.S. Embassy to the city.