Trump's Jerusalem move 'will play into hands of terrorists' warns Erdogan

Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital will "play into the hands of terror groups", Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned.

Erdogan earlier told the Turkish parliament that President Trump was crossing "a red line" by unilaterally recognising Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. He said Turkey could respond by cutting diplomatic ties with Israel.

Trump is also expected to announce on Wednesday (6 November) that the US embassy will move from Tel Aviv to contested Jerusalem.

In response to the proposal, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that the "whole world is against" the controversial move, which he called a "grave mistake." He said it would "not bring any stability or peace but rather chaos and instability."

Jordan's King Abdullah also voiced his concern by saying that Jerusalem is "key to stability" of the entire Middle East.

Following reports of Trump's plans, Palestinians expressed fury at the news and said it marked the end of the peace process between Israel and Palestine.

"The peace process is finished," Palestinian politician Hanan Ashrawi said. "They have already pre-empted the outcome. They cannot take us for granted."

Lebanese newspaper The Daily Star condemned Trump's decision on its front page, with the headline: "No offense Mr. President, Jerusalem is the capital of PALESTINE."

Criticism was echoed around the world, with many world leaders and Pope Francis expressing their concern.

The pope called for the status quo of Jerusalem to be protected and for "wisdom and prudence" to prevent violence from escalating.

He described Jerusalem as a city that has a "special vocation for peace" for Christians, Jews and Muslims and said that "everyone respects the status quo of the city", in accordance with UN resolutions.