State Department: Jerusalem is Israel's capital, but not in passports yet

So close, and yet so far.

By MICHAEL WILNER
Updated: DECEMBER 11, 2017 12:04
US passport [Illustrative] (photo credit: INGIMAGE)
US passport [Illustrative]
(photo credit: INGIMAGE)
WASHINGTON -- After United States President Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel last week, US consular services planned no change to their protocol listing Jerusalem as unaffiliated with any country in American passports.
A State Department official told reporters on Friday that while the US recognizes the Israeli capital, the decision would not spell any changes to consular practices or visa issuances, and does not necessarily mean that Jerusalem is seen as being within the Jewish state.
US President Donald Trump recognizes Jerusalem as Israel"s capital and announces embassy to relocate
A 2015 Supreme Court case ruled against Jerusalem-born Americans petitioning to list Israel in their passports, claiming that only the president – not Congress – had the power to make such a recognition, and noting that consecutive presidents had chosen not to do so.
“Recognition is a matter on which the nation must speak with one voice. That voice is the president’s,” wrote the court’s majority. Theoretically, Trump’s decision reopens consideration of that court case.
The administration is also debating how to delineate Jerusalem in US-issued maps going forward.