Escalating Tensions in Jerusalem as 'Flags March' Proceeds Amidst Gaza Conflict
Today, extremist Israelis have commenced their celebration of the anniversary of the occupation of Jerusalem in 1967, marked by the highly provocative 'Flags March' through the Damascus Gate. The Israeli police have mobilized significantly, with 3,000 officers deployed to safeguard this annual event, which has historically included acts of violence against Palestinian shops and residents in the Old City.
This year’s march, starting in West Jerusalem and proceeding to the Buraq Wall via Al-Wad Street, is particularly contentious given the ongoing Israeli aggression in the Gaza Strip, a campaign which began on October 7 and has resulted in over 119,000 Palestinian casualties, many of them children and women, and about 10,000 people missing.
Notably, the far-right Israeli Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir, has announced his decision to participate in the march. Speaking to Israeli Army Radio, Ben Gvir declared, 'Tomorrow we will walk through the Damascus Gate, and the Jews will ascend to the Temple Mount.' He also noted that Israeli forces often find images of Al-Aqsa in Palestinian homes, suggesting a symbolic target for their strikes.
The march has amplified tensions, reflecting the fraught status especially around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which holds significant religious importance for both Jews and Muslims. With extremist groups and Israeli settlers participating, the 'Flags March' is a flashpoint in the enduring conflict over Jerusalem and its holy sites.
- The 'Flags March' not only commemorates the 1967 reunification of Jerusalem but also expresses strong nationalist and religious sentiments among its participants. The route, which passes through the Damascus Gate, a symbolic entry point to the Muslim Quarter in the Old City, is seen by many as a deliberate act of provocation.
- Itamar Ben Gvir's comments, emphasizing the need to hit Palestinians where it 'is most important for them,' have drawn international criticism as incitements to violence. The geopolitical implications are significant, as the march occurs amid an ongoing and highly destructive air campaign in Gaza.
