Jerusalem. Photo: Berthold Werner.

JNS.org – Israeli Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz (Likud) announced Thursday that he intends to promote a bill that would expand the borders of Jerusalem.

“This week (May 28), we will celebrate Jerusalem Day, marking 47 years since the city was reunified,” Katz said, according to Israel Hayom. “This is the time to promote an initiative that will strengthen Jerusalem, expand its borders and preserve its Jewish national character. I intend to support the Greater Jerusalem as Capital of Israel Bill.”

The bill calls for the communities of Ma’aleh Adumim, Givat Zeev, the Gush Etzion bloc, and Betar Illit to come under the jurisdiction of Jerusalem and the state of Israel.

According to Katz, a joint council would be established that would allow for centralized activity while protecting each entity’s municipal independence, a model implemented in major metropolises worldwide, including greater London and greater Paris.

“We can raise wide support for this initiative among world Jewry and among friends of Israel in the U.S. and other places that recognize the historic relationship and our right to Jerusalem,” Katz said.