Jerusalem, Israel - Sept. 17, 2015 - A special briefing was held today, at the Israel Government Press Office, with Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat and Foreign Ministry Director General Dr. Dore Gold on the recent security events in Jerusalem, Israel.
"The riots on the Temple Mount are not spontaneous, but deliberate, to alter the status quo, stated Gold. The Northern Branch Islamic Movement in Israel, led by Raed Salah Abu Shakra, with ties to Hamas and Muslim Brotherhood, with funding from Qatar, is behind recent violent events. Explosions in al-Aqsa mosque were from pipe bombs, not Israeli forces. The problem lies with those using the mosque as a military site.
Israel protects religious freedom of all religions, is determined to continue to do so, but will not tolerate violence. Accusations of Israel changing status quo are false, and incitement.
"We must allow zero gain for violence," stressed Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat. Three million Muslims had access to the Temple Mount last year, and 12,000 Jews, so clearly Muslims had access, he added in response to a reporters question.
The rioters with stones, rocks and explosive material are trying to prevent religious freedom, "our job is too cool things down," Gold said. The Muslim Brotherhood is determined to undermine Egypt and Jordan, also. The same people are involved in increased violence around Jerusalem.
Barkat questioned why violence is timed for Jewish holidays, while Ramadan was quiet this year. Responsibility must lie with those who send them, not just the rioters. "Condemn those who send." was his advise, "challenge violence, not police." Everywhere in the world police take measures of save lives. In areas where stones are thrown, new lights cameras and fences will be installed.
The "evil wind of religious intolerance" began in Afghanistan in 2001, Gold said, with the destruction of Buddha statutes. World forces must choose religious freedom.
The Palestinian Authority is involved. By spreading rumors that Israel is changing status quo, they are inciting violence.
One measure mentioned, the city has initiated extending the school day for Arab boys. Many are in the Israeli system as it is a better quality education, this is to keep them off the streets and to give them a better education for better future
People at risk do not care who is doing the damage, minors should think twice before being involved with violence.
Thousands and thousands of visitors will fill the Jerusalem streets in the upcoming holiday season. Israeli security forces will be on watch for the public's safety.
