Israel: Tensions high in Jerusalem amid increased security /update 2

Event

Increased security measures at Temple Mount (Haram al-Sharif) in Jerusalem's Old City, including metal detectors and surveillance cameras, have spurred outrage among Muslim community leaders who have called for a boycott of the holy site. Associated protests are likely.

The site was shut down for the first time in 48 years on July 14, after five people were killed in a gunfight. It was reopened the following day after the increased security measures were implemented by Israeli authorities. Minor scuffles broke out on July 16 when some Muslim protestors tried to stop others from entering the gates. Due to continued tensions and the potential of violence, the US government has restricted its employees and their family members from entering the Old City until Monday, July 24.

Context

Tensions are running high following one of the most serious incidents in Jerusalem in recent years. On July 14, three Arab-Israeli gunmen attacked a group of police officers near the Lions' Gate in Jerusalem's Old City, killing two; the attackers were shot and killed at the scene.

Longstanding political and social tensions between Israelis and Palestinians contribute to frequent security incidents of varying severity. At least 260 Palestinians and one Jordanian citizen have been killed since a wave of violent Palestinian street attacks began in 2015. Israel claims at least 177 of those killed were carrying out attacks, while the rest died in clashes and protests. In addition to these deaths, 40 Israelis, two US tourists, and one British student have been killed in Palestinian stabbings, shootings, and car-rammings.

Advice

Individuals in Jerusalem are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to avoid any public demonstrations due to the risk of violence.

More generally due to the ongoing terrorist threat, travelers are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities and to remain vigilant when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (public transportation, train stations, ports, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, etc.). As a reminder, several Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Lebanese, Syrian, and Egyptian borders.