Israel’s Weekly Photo Collection by Haaretz Photographers

On Monday, a large group of right-wing religious Jews paraded through Jerusalem’s Old City, proceeding through the Muslim Quarter’s Damascus Gate as part of the annual Flag March held on Jerusalem Day. This event commemorates the city’s “reunification” following the conclusion of the 1967 Six-Day War.

The flag-waving procession drew support from thousands of participants, highlighting the significance of Jerusalem Day in Israeli culture. The march symbolizes the city’s historical and religious importance to the Jewish community, reflecting a sense of national pride and unity among its participants.

The march route through the Old City, particularly the Muslim Quarter, serves as a point of contention and controversy due to its sensitive location in an area with a mixed Jewish-Arab population. The procession passing through this area evokes complex emotions and responses from various groups, reflecting the intricate dynamics of Jerusalem’s diverse population.

Despite the celebratory nature of the Flag March, it also underscores the ongoing political and social tensions within Jerusalem and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The event’s symbolism and historical context contribute to its contentious nature, amplifying existing divisions and disagreements among different communities in the region.

The annual Flag March serves as a visual representation of the complexities surrounding Jerusalem’s status as a contested city with deep religious and historical significance for multiple groups. The march’s procession through the Old City encapsulates the multifaceted nature of Jerusalem and its significance as a focal point for both religious and national identity.

As participants proudly display their flags and chant patriotic slogans, the Flag March encapsulates a sense of unity and solidarity among the participants, reinforcing their connection to the city of Jerusalem and its historical legacy. However, the event’s passage through sensitive areas also highlights the challenges and complexities inherent in navigating the diverse landscape of Jerusalem’s Old City.

Overall, the Flag March on Jerusalem Day is a vivid and poignant display of Israeli pride and unity, underscoring the city’s central role in the national consciousness. Despite the controversy and tensions surrounding the event, it remains a significant annual tradition that reflects the deep connection and commitment of the Israeli people to Jerusalem and its ongoing importance in the cultural and political landscape of the region.