ISLAMABAD: A major rally held in Jerusalem to commemorate Israel’s 1967 capture of East Jerusalem descended into chaos as confrontations erupted between far-right marchers, Palestinian residents, journalists, and Israeli peace activists.
The event, known as the “Flag March,” annually draws thousands of nationalist participants, but this year’s procession was marked by intense tension, verbal abuse, and physical altercations in the heart of the city’s Old City.
Thousands of marchers, mainly young Israelis from West Bank settlements, flooded Palestinian neighborhoods waving Israeli flags and chanting nationalist slogans.
The situation intensified following a controversial visit by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir to the Al Aqsa mosque compound—a site already fraught with religious and political sensitivities.
Violence and Harassment Mar the Rally
Eyewitnesses reported that violence began shortly after midday when far-right demonstrators began harassing Palestinian shopkeepers, many of whom had closed their stores in anticipation of unrest. Groups of marchers targeted not only Palestinians but also Israeli journalists and activists, shouting anti-Arab slurs and even spitting on individuals, including a Palestinian woman. Police stationed nearby reportedly took no immediate action, citing the participants’ young age as a barrier to arrest.
Some Israeli settlers were seen armed while marching through Palestinian areas, with one carrying a rifle and a child on his shoulders, claiming national pride.
Opposition politicians condemned the violence, labeling it as fueled by hatred rather than patriotism.
The unrest was further inflamed by Ben Gvir’s comments suggesting that Jewish prayer at the Al Aqsa compound is becoming normalized—despite long-standing arrangements limiting such practices.
Regional Reactions and Rising Tensions
The Palestinian Authority condemned the march and Ben Gvir’s visit, describing them as dangerous provocations that could destabilize the broader region. Jordan also expressed concern over the escalation.
Clashes continued throughout the day as left-wing Israeli activists stepped in to protect Palestinians from aggressive crowds.
The Old City, particularly East Jerusalem, remains internationally recognized as occupied territory, despite Israel asserting full sovereignty.
Celebratory rhetoric from some Israeli leaders was sharply contrasted by domestic and international criticism of the violence and incitement seen during the rally.
