Mon May 26 15:56:28 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Tensions Flare in Jerusalem as Right-Wing Israelis March, Chant Anti-Arab Slogans**

Jerusalem – A provocative march by right-wing Israelis through Jerusalem’s Old City on Monday ignited tensions, with participants chanting anti-Arab slogans and clashing with Palestinians and others. The march coincided with “Jerusalem Day,” commemorating Israel’s occupation and annexation of East Jerusalem following the 1967 war.

Marchers, some carrying Israeli flags, were heard chanting “Death to Arabs” and “May your village burn” as they passed through the Muslim quarter. Reports indicate confrontations with Palestinian shopkeepers, passersby, schoolchildren, Israeli rights activists, and police, including instances of spitting, verbal abuse, and attempted forced entry into homes. Police reportedly detained at least two youths.

Prior to the march, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and other politicians were among over 2,000 Israelis who entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a site revered by Muslims. Ben-Gvir posted a video online stating he “prayed for victory in the war, for the return of all our hostages, and for the success of the newly-appointed head of the Shin Bet.” The Jerusalem Waqf, which oversees the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, condemned the actions of Ben-Gvir and other Knesset members and called for an end to “provocative activities” in the area.

Adding to the controversy, a small group of marchers, including Knesset member Yulia Malinovsky, reportedly stormed a compound belonging to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). UNRWA West Bank coordinator Roland Friedrich confirmed that a dozen protesters entered the compound, climbing its main gate in view of Israeli police.

Al Jazeera’s Nida Ibrahim reported from Doha that the march aimed to assert Israeli dominance over the city and that videos showed Israeli citizens attacking Palestinian shops.

This year’s march follows a history of escalating tensions. Last year saw attacks on a Palestinian journalist during the procession, and the 2021 march was a contributing factor to the outbreak of an 11-day war in Gaza. The presence of heavily armed police and border police underscores the volatile nature of the event.

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