Calm prevails in the Palestinian territories

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A caution calm prevailed across the Palestinian territories after a relatively violent Friday. Calls for protests continue as Palestinians resume their rejection to US President Donald Trump’s decision of moving the American embassy to Jerusalem after recognizing the holy city as the capital of Israel.

In the Arab dominated East Jerusalem, few youngsters gathered at Damascus Gate on Saturday. It's one of the main entrances of the old city that leads to Al-Aqsa mosque and the Iconic Dome of the Rock mosque. This entrance has become a symbol of Palestinian resistance and a popular rallying point.

Young Palestinians gather anticipating a protest. /Photo via Adel EL Mahrouky

Minor tensions broke as Israeli Forces forcefully tried to evacuate the area from citizens. With little resistance, the site was evacuated.

Inside the ancient walls of Jerusalem the market was packed with customers, business flowed as usual. Tourists walked in the alleys of the holy city with no concerns.

The Israeli authorities too didn’t seem to expect any major reaction from locals. Security presence in the area significantly dropped after heightened measures were taken on Friday. And most of the security personnel present looked at ease.

In Gaza, scores took the streets marching in funerals of the two killed during Friday’s clashes. Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh led the funeral prayers. In his speech, he reassured the angry crowd that Jerusalem will not be compromised.

On Friday protests broke in several Palestinian cities. Israeli forces killed four and injured 367 according to Palestinian officials. While Israel says, it’s still investigating the reported deaths toll.

More protests are expected by the end of the week, marking the visit of US Vice President Mike Pence to Jerusalem.

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