Palestinians react to stun grenades fired by Israeli police to clear the Damascus Gate to the Old City of Jerusalem after clashes at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound (Maya Alleruzzo/AP)More than 200 people were injured in a night of heavy clashes between Palestinians and Israeli police at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound and elsewhere in Jerusalem, where tensions have soared in recent weeks, the Palestinian emergency service said on Saturday. Israeli police deployed in large numbers as Muslim worshippers were holding evening prayers at the site late on Friday. Sunday night is also the start of Jerusalem Day, a national holiday in which Israel celebrates its annexation of east Jerusalem and religious nationalists hold parades and other celebrations in the city. Israel annexed east Jerusalem in a move not recognised internationally and views the entire city as its capital. The Palestinians view east Jerusalem — which includes major holy sites for Jews, Christians and Muslims — as their capital, and its fate is one of the most sensitive issues in the conflict.

Source: Irish Independent May 08, 2021 07:41 UTC