Small nation’s moral stand accelerates Jerusalem recognition, defying pressure and reinforcing Israel’s rightful capital status.
Israel’s diplomatic momentum gained fresh international validation as Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced that Samoa will officially open its embassy in Jerusalem in 2026.
Sa’ar revealed that he spoke directly with Samoan Prime Minister La’auli Leuatea Schmidt, thanking him for what he described as a principled and moral decision that reinforces Israel’s historic and sovereign connection to its capital. The Israeli minister also praised Samoa’s consistent record of supporting Israel across international forums, calling the move a courageous affirmation of truth over political pressure.
According to Israeli officials, Schmidt has already instructed his foreign ministry to begin preparations this year, signaling that Samoa’s diplomatic presence in Jerusalem is not symbolic rhetoric but an actionable commitment. Sa’ar extended a formal invitation for the prime minister to visit Israel, noting that Jerusalem is prepared to welcome Samoa’s leadership soon.
Samoa’s decision places it among a growing group of nations recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital through direct diplomatic representation. These include the United States, which relocated its embassy in 2018 under President Donald Trump, as well as Guatemala, Honduras, Kosovo, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, and most recently Fiji.
Israeli diplomats view the announcement as further evidence that global recognition of Jerusalem is expanding beyond traditional power blocs, driven increasingly by smaller nations willing to assert independent foreign policies. The move underscores Israel’s growing success in reshaping international consensus around Jerusalem, despite persistent opposition and diplomatic pressure from hostile blocs that continue to deny Israel’s legitimate capital.
