06 Dec 2023 | 12:04 AM UTC
Israel: Jewish activists to stage protest march through parts of Jerusalem during the evening of Dec. 7
Jewish activists to stage protest march through central Jerusalem, Israel, starting at 19:30 Dec. 7. Tight security, clashes likely.
Several Jewish activist groups plan to stage a protest march through parts of Jerusalem during the evening of Dec. 7. Dubbed the "March of the Maccabees," the purpose of the event is to memorialize Israeli victims of the Israel-Hamas war, as well as to demand that the entirety of the city - including the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa complex - be placed under Jewish control, among other things. Participants will assemble at Israel Defense Forces Square (formerly Allenby Square) starting at 19:30 before marching into East Jerusalem via Damascus Gate and proceeding to the Western Wall in the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa complex. It remains unclear how many participants the demonstration may draw. Unconfirmed reports indicate that Palestinian groups may be planning to disrupt the event.
Authorities will undoubtedly deploy very heavy security in affected areas of Jerusalem, including in East Jerusalem, during the planned march. Given the contentious nature of the demonstration against the backdrop of increased tensions from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, clashes between opposing activist groups are highly likely.
Avoid areas along the march route during the evening of Dec. 7 and early hours of Dec. 8 due to the potential for violence. Plan alternate driving routes to circumvent affected parts of Jerusalem. Strictly heed the instructions of local security personnel. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of any clashes.
