Jerusalem police prepare for turmoil

JERUSALEM -The Jerusalem police are set to deploy in full force and limit the age of Muslim worshippers at the Temple Mount Sunday as tensions in the capital continue to mount. The tensions flared after right-wing group “Revava” said it would hold a mass right-wing rally at the holy site, prompting harsh Arab reactions. The police have since said they would not allow the rally to go ahead, but right-wing Knesset Members Arieh Eldad, Uri Ariel, and Michael Ratzon announced Saturday they intend to visit the Mount nonetheless. Following a situation assessment, Internal Security Minister Gideon Ezra and Police Chief Moshe Karadi decided to only allow Muslims who are 40 and above and hold Israeli ID cards at the Mount Sunday. The age of Muslim women would not be limited. Meanwhile, Jewish and Christian visitors would be barred from the holy site throughout the day. ‘I’m afraid it will be a mess’ Police reinforcements are set to deploy at roadblocks and boost patrols around the Mount and in the Old City. Any attempt by either Arabs or Jews to stir provocations would be dealt with severely, the police said. At the same time, the IDF is preparing for the possibility of disturbances in the West Bank and Gaza. The army also intends to limit the age of Palestinian men entering Jerusalem to those 45 and above, while the entry of women would be limited to those 35 and above. However, the situation could get out of control despite police preparations, “Revava” leader David Ha’ivri told Ynet. “We asked the police to attempt to reach an understanding,” he said. “We know the masses are expected to come and demand that the Mount be opened to Jewish worshippers.” Ha’ivri said he would not be responsible for developments in Jerusalem should the police prevent right-wing activists from holding the rally. “I’m afraid it will be a mess,” he said.

Jerusalem police prepare for turmoil

Age of Muslims worshipers at Temple Mount to be limited Sunday in light of planned right-wing rally, Arab threats