Israel: Demonstrations against pending evictions in East Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood likely through at least Aug. 2

Event

Protest activity is highly likely in East Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood through at least Aug. 2 when the Israeli Supreme Court will hand down a final verdict regarding the pending eviction of dozens of Palestinian residents. The case of Sheikh Jarrah has garnered much attention and prompted mass demonstrations throughout East Jerusalem in recent months. Activists allege the evictions are part of an effort by Israeli settlers to remove Palestinians from East Jerusalem. Palestinian activists plan to gather in Sheikh Jarrah from 18:00 July 31 to protest the forced displacement; the protest will probably be well-attended. Additional demonstrations are likely to materialize throughout East Jerusalem in the coming days.

Heightened security is almost certain throughout Sheikh Jarrah and other flashpoint sites in East Jerusalem, such as the Al Aqsa Mosque/Temple Mount compound, through at least Aug. 2. Previous demonstrations have witnessed clashes between protesters and Israeli security forces. Further clashes between protesters and security forces are likely, especially if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to adhere to police instructions. Security forces may respond to demonstrations with tear gas, stun grenades, and other riot control measures. Clashes are also possible between Palestinian protesters and Israeli residents. Localized transport disruptions are likely near any protest activity.

Advice

Avoid the Sheikh Jarrah area of East Jerusalem through at least Aug. 2 due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution and allow extra time for travel throughout the affected area. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions before traveling. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints; even an accidental breach of the security cordon near a checkpoint may prompt a response from Israeli security forces.