Ultra-conservative Israeli protesters stir up trouble in Jerusalem demonstration
A group of hardline Israelis gather in Jerusalem to rally. Their actions go against established agreements. Clashes ensue with law enforcement. The demonstrators push for "the complete restoration of Jewish dominion in Jerusalem and on the Temple Mount".
Per reports from eyewitnesses, tensions flared up at the start of a rally by fundamentalist Israeli supporters in Jerusalem at nightfall. Israeli television reported that some participants defied an established agreement by carrying controversial signs. One such sign read, "A lethal bullet for every terrorist; there's no coexistence with the adversary", as per Kan Channel's broadcast. The authorities allegedly halted the march of dozens of demonstrators through the historical quarter.
The purpose of the march was to advocate for various objectives, including demanding the "complete restoration of Jewish authority in Jerusalem and on the Temple Mount". In Palestinian eyes, it serves as a grave provocation. The Temple Mount (Al-Haram al-Sharif) in Jerusalem, home to the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, is considered the third most sacred site in Islam. For the Jews, the same area held historical importance as it housed two Jewish temples.
As per an unofficial communique, the march was also intended to traverse the Muslim quarter. Additionally, the attendees called for the removal of the Muslim Waqf administration from the Temple Mount. The Waqf authority is responsible for the Temple Mount's management, while the Israeli government is responsible for maintaining security. The agreement between Muslim authorities permits Jewish visitors to the site but prohibits them from praying there. However, violations of this agreement are frequent.
Jordan castigated Israel for authorizing the rally, issuing a warning against the continuation of unilateral Israeli measures aimed at altering the historical and legal status of Jerusalem and its holy sites. The neighboring country seized Jerusalem and the West Bank during the 1967 Six-Day War. The Palestinians lay claim to these territories, aspiring to establish their own state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Suggested Readings:
The rally triggered confrontations with law enforcement, as some hardline Israeli supporters disregarded agreements and exhibited controversial signs. The main goal of the rally was to lobby for the "complete restoration of Jewish authority in Jerusalem and on the Temple Mount", an objective that Palestinians consider a severe provocation.
