2024-03-11 14:28:22
The Israeli police announced that they detained 20 residents of the predominantly Arab eastern part of Jerusalem, shortly before the start of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims, DPA reported, quoted by BTA.
The suspects, who have been detained for the past two weeks, are accused of supporting and inciting terrorism. Many of them are still under investigation, while others have already been charged, police said.
There is a lot of incitement and fake news online aimed at creating trouble ahead of Ramadan and destabilizing the region, law enforcement officials added.
Ramadan is a particularly holy period for Muslims, and this year it begins tonight. Tensions in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have been particularly high this year due to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.
A further flare-up of conflict is expected this year in the occupied West Bank and around holy sites in Jerusalem’s Old City during Ramadan.
Washington has been pushing for a ceasefire agreement and the release of Israeli hostages to be finalized by the start of Ramadan, but despite weeks of efforts, talks have stalled for several days.
Israeli police said they wanted to “allow Ramadan prayers to be held safely on the Temple Mount, but at the same time ensure security in the area.”