JERUSALEM - The Temple Mount
will be closed to Jewish and Christian worshippers on Sunday in a bid to prevent riots, Israel Police Chief Moshe Karadi and Internal Security Minister Gideon Ezra decided Wednesday.
The decision, which marks the first time the Mount has been closed to Jews in the past year and a half, comes in the wake of a planned right-wing rally that aimed to bring thousands of Jews to the holy site Sunday to mark the first day of the Jewish month of Nisan .
Earlier, Palestinian officials expressed concern over possible rioting at the Mount as a result of Jewish provocations. Consequently, Jerusalem police officials met with East Jerusalem representatives and announced police forces would keep the area secure.
The police initially said only small groups would be allowed on the Mount, in accordance with standard regulations.
Right-wing activists warns police
Following the decision, right-wing activist Aviad Visuly, who heads the Land of Israel Task Force, sent Jerusalem Police a letter stating the organization will not be responsible for the event.
"Since you have rejected our legal and organized request for a demonstration license, the Land of Israel Task Force withdraws its organizational responsibility from the event," Visuly said. "The police is obligated to permit, secure, and defend the right of those participating in the event to conduct the planned gatherings and processions."
Moreover, Visuly warned Jerusalem Police Chief Ilan Franko that participants will document and photograph police officers' conduct.
"The police officers' behavior will be thoroughly analyzed following the event, and all the possible legal measures will be taken against any officer who violates the law," Visuly said.
First published: 21:00, 04.06.5