JERUSALEM, ISRAEL—Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced that a settlement in the Golan Heights would be named Ramat Trump (Trump Heights) to honor US President Donald Trump's recognition of Israeli control of the territory. And as historic as the gesture may have been, an even more groundbreaking announcement was made today. Leaders in Jerusalem have approved the construction of a new Trump Tower to be erected in place of the Dome of the Rock on the historic Temple Mount.
Because of the centuries-old Status Quo agreement, permissions for changes to religious sites in and around the Holy City are nearly impossible to obtain, however, leaders granted approval for the construction of the 92-story hotel and tower, which will also include a tasteful shrine to President Trump in the building's lobby.
"It's really not even that surprising," Trump said of the news. "I've done so much for peace in that area, I betcha soon they'll name the whole country after me."
While protests have already begun at the designated site, leaders from all of the major religions in the city have come out in support of the tower, and many Holy Land tours are expected to add the new building to their itineraries.
"It won't exactly be a place of holy worship," said Theophilos III, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem. "But it's hard to argue with the economic boom it'll bring. Especially from tourists coming to see his giant gold statue."
Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring of next year.
Readers of the Bee,
If you value The Babylon Bee and want to see us prevail against Snopes and anyone else who might seek to discredit or deplatform us, please consider becoming a subscriber. Your support really will make a difference.
