Jerusalem [Israel], June 6: Israeli police have arrested 18 suspects for violence, assault, threat, and disorderly conduct offenses during Jerusalem Day, celebrated by Israel on Wednesday, the police said in a statement.
The annual Jerusalem Day marks the occupation of East Jerusalem by Israel in the Six-Day War in 1967. It includes a flag march that, over the years, has provoked incidents between Jews and Muslims as it passes through Muslim-populated areas in East Jerusalem. This year, tens of thousands of Jews marched in the event, secured by 3,000 policemen.
According to Israeli media, three Muslims were arrested during a brawl in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City in East Jerusalem, while several Jewish far-right activists were arrested for attacking Muslims, journalists, and Jewish left-wing activists.
Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir arrived at the Old City's Damascus Gate, claiming that "according to my policy, today Jews prayed freely on the Temple Mount," which is in violation of the status quo.
In response, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office contradicted Ben-Gvir's statement, stating that "The status quo on the Temple Mount has not changed and will not change."
According to the status quo that governs the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, known to the Jews as the Temple Mount, non-Muslims can visit the site only during limited time and are not officially allowed to pray there.
Source: Qatar Tribune
