Protest escalation: Israeli right-wing patriots intensify aggression
Thousands Gather for Jerusalem Day Flag March, Escalating Tensions and Violence
On Monday, the annual Jerusalem Day Flag March marked a significant escalation of tensions and instances of violence, particularly in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City. The procession commemorates Israel's reunification of Jerusalem following the 1967 Six-Day War and has historically led to clashes with Palestinians.
Thousands of national religious Israelis participated in the march, which was marred by extremist Jewish youth who have been known for their past harassment and physical attacks against Palestinians. During the march, chants of "Death to Arabs" were reported, and there were instances of violence against Palestinians.
Moreover, over 1,500 far-right Israelis, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The incident prompted condemnation from Jordan, highlighting the sensitivity of religious sites in Jerusalem.
Around 3,000 police officers were deployed to manage the event and prevent violence. Despite this, 18 people were arrested for violent offenses.
Nida Ibrahim, an Al Jazeera correspondent, reported that the march was marked by anti-Arab slogans and included harassment of Palestinians by settler groups. Many Palestinians in the area reported feeling vulnerable and fearful due to the march, with some closing their shops early in anticipation of the violence.
The storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound was seen as a symbol of systemic displacement and a reminder of the unresolved refugee crisis. Palestinians in East Jerusalem face revocable residency status due to the ongoing conflict.
The march's organizer, Meir Indor, emphasized the need for peaceful conduct, warning against violent behavior in a letter to participating groups. However, the event remained controversial due to the involvement of extremist groups.
The march is seen as violating international law, which designates East Jerusalem as occupied territory. The participation of government ministers, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, underscores the political tensions surrounding the event.
The European Union has expressed concerns about the annual Jerusalem Day Flag March, citing the escalation of politics and violence related to the event. The intrusion of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by far-right Israelis, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, has raised questions about crime and justice in the region, as such actions are perceived as symbolizing systemic displacement and aggravating the unresolved refugee crisis.
