A Memo to Mike Pence

D riving by the US Consulate on Jerusalem’s Agron Street the day after President Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital the atmosphere was festive.

The flags of Israel the United States and Jerusalem were hoisted high on alternating flagpoles flapping in the late autumn breeze.

I noticed more security guards than usual keeping vigil on the first of the three days of rage the Arabs had promised in response to Trump’s announcement. But I imagined the number of guards will be nothing compared to how tight security will be next week when Vice President Mike Pence visits.

Pence’s trip was announced almost two months ago well before the Trump administration’s change of policy on Jerusalem. Pence’s Knesset address on Monday will center on consensus issues — strengthening US-Israeli relations and deterring Iranian aggression in the region.