Rightists to march in Silwan despite tensions

Police approve parade of 70 people along 400 meters in east Jerusalem neighborhood even after Palestinian 'day of rage'

Shmulik Grossman

Published: 03.17.10, 20:15 / Israel News

Right-wing activists will march in the Arab neighborhood of Silwan in east Jerusalem on Sunday, only several days after violent clashes which took place in the capital Tuesday.

The police confirmed Wednesday that the parade would be held under tight security along 400 meters (1,312 feet), rather than the 2 kilometers (6,562 feet) requested by the activists.

Threat

Zahalka: Evacuating Silwan will lead to intifada / Ronen Medzini

Disagreement between Jerusalem mayor and municipal legal advisor regarding structure in east of city discussed in Knesset Internal Affairs Committee. MK Orlev addresses crisis with Americans, says, 'All Israeli governments have built throughout Jerusalem'

Full story

"There is no concrete fear, but we will be prepared for any possibility and won't let any element on any side disrupt the order," a police official said.

The protest has been limited to 70 participants, and demonstrators with a license to carry a weapon have been required to arrive without it.

Right-wing activist Baruch Marzel told Ynet, "I know that in recent days there have been all kinds of threats and sayings against the marchers, because we are demanding the demolition of 216 illegal building in Silwan."

According to Marzel, the law applying to the settlers' house should also apply to the residents of Silwan. He said he hoped the police would not give in to the demand to call off the rally.

According to the rightists, the march's aim is to examine the illegal construction in the area. "The Palestinian illegal buildings deserve the same justice as the houses destroyed in our outposts," said right-wing activists Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Silwan residents warned of the parade's ramifications. "The police are not normal," said Fahri Abu Dihab. "The situation is turbulent as it is because of the houses that are about to be demolished."

talkback

Send to friend

Bookmark to del.icio.us

1 Talkbacks for this article

See all talkbacks

Please wait for the talkbacks to load

Site developed by
Copyright © Yedioth Internet. All rights reserved.