Israeli authorities on Wednesday said they have given the go-ahead for flag-waving Jewish nationalists to march through the heart of the main Palestinian thoroughfare in Jerusalem's Old City later this month, in a decision that threatens to re-ignite violence in the holy city.
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Public Security Minister Omer Barlev said the march would take place on May 29 along its "customary route" through Damascus Gate – one of the most volatile flashpoints in the Old City and the scene of multiple past terrorist attacks.
Each year, thousands of right-wing activists participate in the march, waving Israeli flags, singing songs and, in some cases, chanting anti-Arab slogans, as they pass by Palestinian onlookers and businesses.
Barlev's office said the decision was made after consultations with the police.
Last year's military campaign in the Gaza Strip, Operation Guardian of the Walls, erupted days before the march was set to take place. At the time, authorities changed the route at the last moment to avoid Damascus Gate.
The Old City in east Jerusalem has experienced weeks of violent confrontations between Israeli police and Palestinian demonstrators ahead of the hostilities, and the march threatens to trigger new unrest. Defense officials have warned that the situation is similar at this time, as well.
Tensions also have been heightened by an Israeli police crackdown during the funeral of slain Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh last week. As the funeral procession got underway, police clashed with mourners and protesters, earning Israel international backlash.
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