SYDNEY, Australia (AFP) — An ancient Biblical prophecy lies at the heart of a Pacific islands push to open embassies in Jerusalem, experts and former diplomats have told AFP.
Israel may seem an unlikely partner for the far-flung nations of the tropical South Pacific, sharing little in common by way of culture, language, food or sport.
And yet, Pacific island nations have often proven some of Israel’s most steadfast supporters on the international stage.
Tiny Nauru opened an embassy in Jerusalem earlier this week, joining a handful of nations bucking international pressure by recognizing Israeli sovereignty in the holy city.
Papua New Guinea and Fiji are already among just seven UN member-states to open embassies in Jerusalem, while Samoa has stated it will join them later this year.
