The annual Jerusalem Day Flag March returned to East Jerusalem’s Old City on 14 May 2026, drawing thousands of Israeli nationalists through predominantly Palestinian areas and sparking violence and racist attacks against local residents. The event, which marks the 1967 capture of East Jerusalem, has long been seen by Palestinians as a provocative demonstration.
Far‑right marchers chanted slogans including “May your village burn” and physically attacked Palestinians in the Christian Quarter before the official procession began, vandalising property and intimidating residents. Many Palestinian shopkeepers closed their stores early and some were forced indoors for safety. Ultranationalist participants also shouted other racist phrases during the march, underscoring deep tensions between communities.
Israeli police surrounded the Old City and restricted movement, and peace activists from Jewish‑Arab groups attempted to shield Palestinians from assault but were themselves targeted. Critics say the event has grown increasingly violent in recent years amid broader regional conflicts and rising nationalist sentiment in Israel.
