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Jerusalem Day March Storms Muslim Quarter, Minister Faulted

5/15/2026

36 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Jerusalem Day flag march entered the Muslim Quarter on May 14, 2026 despite a denied Knesset reroute request.
Knesset Member Gilad Kariv (The Democrats) said the march’s violence embarrasses Judaism, Zionism and Israel.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir is blamed for police inaction after radical youths attacked bystanders and press.
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion called the day festive and praised security forces.

History

Historical Context

After Israel’s June 7 1967 capture of East Jerusalem, the Knesset declared May 31 1968 as Jerusalem Day, launching the first flag march to celebrate the reunified city. The annual parade, first held in 1968, has become a flashpoint; the May 14 2026 march led by nationalist groups faces opposition from Knesset member Gilad Kariv and Jerusalem mayor Moshe Lion, reflecting the enduring tension from the 1967 territorial shift.

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Story summary

The Jerusalem Day flag march entered the Muslim Quarter on May 14, 2026 despite a denied Knesset reroute request.
Knesset Member Gilad Kariv (The Democrats) said the march’s violence embarrasses Judaism, Zionism and Israel.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir is blamed for police inaction after radical youths attacked bystanders and press.
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion called the day festive and praised security forces.

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