AJC Condemns Palestinian Violence in Jerusalem

NEW YORK, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AJC condemned Palestinian riots in Jerusalem which left 10 Israelis injured, including a 35-year-old man who was stabbed near the Mount of Olives.

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"Unprovoked Palestinian violence in Jerusalem is ominously reminiscent of the Temple Mount riots ten years ago which resulted in the second intifada," said AJC Executive Director David Harris. "This is a deliberate attempt by Palestinian rejectionists of all factions to derail the revived direct peace talks with Israel."

Today's violence began after a Jewish security guard driving home was confronted by Palestinians in eastern Jerusalem who threw rocks and trash cans at him. Fearing for his life, the guard allegedly opened fire with his personal firearm at a group of rock throwers and killed a resident. Police found two knives and a screwdriver on the body of the victim, who had a previous criminal history and was known to police.

Later in the day, Palestinians at the Al Aqsa mosque on the Temple Mount threw rocks upon Jewish worshippers who had gathered at the Western Wall below for the Jewish holiday of Succot. Israeli buses were also attacked and clashes broke out around the Mount of Olives and in the town of Silwan.

"We are relieved that Israeli police have restored calm for now," said Harris. "However, what transpires in the coming days will greatly depend on President Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad. If they are serious about ending Palestinian violence, they must communicate this message clearly and directly to the Palestinian people."

SOURCE American Jewish Committee