The Israelis were aware of the potential risk of their actions, and it appears to have started a war
The Israeli police desired to change the route of the parade, and were well aware of the risk of violence, that has escalated into the present war in Israel
Jerusalem Day: Increased calls to alter Flag March route through Old City
By
JERUSALEM POST STAFF
MAY 9, 2021 13:44
Groups of Jewish youth movements wave Israeli flags as they celebrate Jerusalem Day by the Great Synagogue, on King George Street, before taking part in the parade to the Old City. Jerusalem Day celebrates the 47th anniversary of its capture of Arab East Jerusalem in the Six Day War of 1967.
(photo credit: HADAS PARUSH/FLASH90)
Israel Police is ready to change the plan of events if needed, and Arab Meretz MK Esawi Frej warned of Jerusalem Day turning into "Meron 2.0."
On the backdrop of the violent protests that
took place this weekend on the Temple Mount, and which led to protests throughout Jerusalem, the West Bank and
Gaza, police and public figures are approaching Jerusalem Day events with caution.
Israel Police Spokesperson Commander Eli Levi told Army Radio on Sunday morning that all events are still scheduled as planned, but that "if the police identify a rise in the likelihood of innocent bystanders getting hurt as a result of Jews going up to the Temple Mount, we will, of course, reevaluate our plans."
As of Sunday, the route will not change this year, and will proceed through Damascus Gate, Israeli media noted.
On Thursday, Israel Police's Jerusalem District Chief Doron Turgeman begged for the flags parade route, which usually goes through the Old City of Jerusalem, to be rerouted amid the recent rising tensions.
Meretz MK Esawi Frej took to Twitter to express his concerns: "It only takes one match to light a fire. This match could be the approval that the settlers will get to advance with their Flags Parade at Bab al-Amud [Damascus Gate].
The parade route is usually through the Old City via Damascus Gate, into the Muslim quarter and finishing at the Western Wall.