Israeli ultranationalists march through Jerusalem's Palestinian areas, storm UN compound | DW News

Key Concepts:

• Jerusalem Day: Commemorates the reunification of Jerusalem under Israeli control after the 1967 Six-Day War.
• East Jerusalem: The eastern part of Jerusalem, including the Old City, occupied by Israel in 1967 and later annexed.
• Flag March: A controversial march by Israeli groups through Palestinian neighborhoods in East Jerusalem.
• Damascus Gate: A main entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem, located in East Jerusalem.
• Temple Mount: A religiously significant site in Jerusalem, also a point of contention.
• Far-right ideology: Extremist political views gaining traction in mainstream Israeli society.

Jerusalem Day and the Flag March

• Israel observes Jerusalem Day to celebrate what it considers the reunification of Jerusalem following the 1967 Six-Day War.
• The eastern part of the city, including the Old City, has been under Israeli control since then, though this is viewed as an occupation by many.
• A controversial flag march is organized by religious and far-right Israeli groups through Palestinian neighborhoods in East Jerusalem.
• Security forces are on high alert due to the potential for clashes and violence.

The March Through East Jerusalem

• The march starts at Damascus Gate, a key entry point to the Old City located in East Jerusalem.
• The march is seen by participants as a celebration of the "unification" of East and West Jerusalem after 1967.
• It is also interpreted as a show of strength by the far-right, whose ideology is gaining influence in Israeli society.
• The march is perceived by Palestinian residents as a message that "this is not your city, this is our city."

Violence and Intimidation

• The march has become increasingly "ugly" in recent years, with instances of mob violence.
• Examples include young people spitting at Palestinian residents and chanting slogans like "death to Arabs" and "we burning your villages."
• This year, a new chant was heard: "We've taken Jerusalem as ours like over 50 years ago, and now in 2025, we're also taking Gaza."
• The march is described as a "violent day," both verbally and physically, sending a message to Palestinian residents that they are not part of the city.

Impact on Palestinian Residents

• Most shops in the Old City are closed due to concerns for the safety of Palestinian residents.
• The march is delayed due to hot weather, but more marchers are expected to arrive at Damascus Gate and enter the Old City later in the evening.

Conclusion

Jerusalem Day, particularly the flag march, is a highly contentious event that exacerbates tensions between Israelis and Palestinians. The march, intended as a celebration of Jerusalem's "unification," is perceived by Palestinians as an act of aggression and intimidation, highlighting the deep divisions and ongoing conflict over the city. The increasing visibility and influence of far-right ideologies further complicate the situation, raising concerns about the future of Jerusalem and the prospects for peace.