October 30, 2014 | Quote

Palestinian Government Calls for War in Jerusalem


“There is a very unique phenomenon we’re observing right now, unlike anything we’ve seen before,” said Jonathan Schanzer, vice president of research for the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD).

“There really does appear to be a movement that is trying to win hearts and minds and to get people riled up,” said Schanzer, explaining that Palestinian activists in the Temple Mount area are reportedly stoking tensions against Israel.

“Usually, the West Bank or Gaza set the tone for conflicts with Israel. This time, Jerusalem Arabs are leading the charge,” Schanzer explained.

Abbas’ comments accusing Israel of declaring war via its closure of the Temple Mount could make an already volatile situation even worse.

“Abbas is taking a potentially combustible situation and pouring gasoline on it,” Schanzer said.

FDD’s Schanzer said that tensions are high going into Friday.

“We could be on the brink, but lets not declare war on behalf of the Palestinians,” he said.

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Issues:

Israel Palestinian Politics