Court to rule: Should Jerusalem Day march avoid Muslim quarter on Ramadan?
During Jerusalem Day, a parade of activists marches in Jerusalem with Israeli flags. Should they be allowed to march through the Muslim section?
By HAGAY HACOHENJerusalem Day: May 24, 2017(photo credit: REUTERS)
The NGO Ir Amim submitted a petition to the High Court asking it to change the route taken by Israeli activists during their annual Jerusalem Day march, which will take place early next month, during Ramadan.The annual march, which celebrates the reunification of the city following the Six Day War, usually goes through the Muslim section of the city and involves waving large Israeli flags.Noting that thousands of Muslims “arrive in the Muslim section of the city for prayers and meals” during the month of Ramadan, Ir Amim requests that the court rule the march will take a different path that will bypass the Muslim residents of the city.A 2018 poll found that 72% of Israelis view Jerusalem Day as "just a regular day" and not a holiday.In the past, the march has led to conflict within the Old City and on Temple Mount.