Organizers said the march was an attempt to “restore a sense of security to the streets of Jerusalem.” Israeli leaders called the march a “provocation.”
A recent upsurge in violence in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories has raised fears of a slide back into a broader conflict.
Since March, Israeli forces have killed at least 29 Palestinians in raids on West Bankand a series of deadly Arab street attacks have killed 14 people in Israel.
Clashes in Jerusalem’s Old City risk a relapse into a broader conflagration like the 11-day war between Israel and Hamaswhich controls the Gaza Striplast year, in which more than 250 Gazans and 13 Israelis were killed.
Earlier on Wednesday, Israel’s prime minister, Naftali Bennettordered the police to ban the far-right lawmaker Itamar Ben-Gvir visit the Damascus Gate, following the recommendations of security officials.
Protesters scuffled with police to try to reach Damascus Gate but diverted to another gate in the Old City after forces stopped them, a Reuters witness said.
Hamas warned against protesters approaching the holy site, saying “the occupation leaders” would bear full responsibility for the consequences of “such dangerous and provocative measures.”
The Old City is located in East Jerusalem, which the Palestinians claim as the capital of a future state.
Israel, which annexed East Jerusalem in a move deemed illegal under international law, calls Jerusalem its eternal capital.
Source: Ambito
David William is a talented author who has made a name for himself in the world of writing. He is a professional author who writes on a wide range of topics, from general interest to opinion news. David is currently working as a writer at 24 hours worlds where he brings his unique perspective and in-depth research to his articles, making them both informative and engaging.
