Middle East tensions rise as US prepares to open embassy in Jerusalem

The Middle East is on tender hooks as it braces for region-wide protests against the opening of the US embassy in Jerusalem later today.

The move formally recognises Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, reversing seven decades of US foreign policy.

It’s angered Palestinians who claim East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the move will foster peace.

Last week, Israel celebrated Donald Trump’s decision to pull the US out of the Iran nuclear deal as Israel’s border conflict with Iran escalates.

That’s led to questions about whether Donald Trump is using his regional partners like Israel to fight the big fight in the Middle East, contain Iran and limit America’s involvement.

Listen to the report from the ABC RN Breakfast program.