Temple Mount focal point of tensions
Photo: Sebastian Scheiner
Police deployed in full force
Photo: AFP
Police vow to prevent Mount clash
Palestinians concerned about far right plans to hold mass rally at Jerusalem's Temple Mount; police say they would not allow provocations
JERUSALEM - The Jerusalem police have initiated a series of meetings with Palestinian dignitaries and clerics, in a bid to allay fears that far right activists are planning to hold a mass rally at the Temple Mount.
The Palestinian concerns emerged after right-wing activists posted leaflets in the capital, declaring their intention to organize the visit of "ten thousand Jews" to the holy site in two weeks.
Palestinian officials expressed their concern over possible far right provocations, prompting the Arab media to devote growing attention to the story.
The police, however, say they received no request to authorize the rally. If a request is submitted, it would be approved in accordance with regular visitation regulations, which only allow for small groups to visit the Mount, the police say.
'Security measures inadequate'
The police also say they are deployed in full force at the Mount and its surroundings in an effort to prevent anyone from disturbing the peace.
Earlier, Knesset Member Mohammad Barakeh told Ynet the Arab Israeli Supreme Monitoring Committee would call on the Arab public to arrive at the planned right-wing rally.
"I expect many will respond to the call," he said at the time.
Monitoring Committee members, meanwhile, vowed to protect the Mount with their bodies, noting security measures at the holy site are inadequate.
