Jaffa riot

Demonstrators around the esplanade

Last night and today saw massive demonstrations in the Al Aqsa esplanade from 7.30pm onwards. After the 9.30pm prayers the crowds which numbered thousands left mainly toward Lions Gate. A lot of chanting. The Gate was totally blocked with people. Women and children and elderly left through our road towards Damascus Gate where there were less crowds and less violence. The Border Police showed great restraint both nights. In fact they were not even in our street. Half a dozen showed up only when the demonstrators  came up our way but nothing happened. No tear gas or stun grenade was shot at Lions Gate despite the massive and almost dangerous protest. I thought that was smart ... such demonstrations just fizzle out.  See the video of tonight's demonstration  http://www.jerusalemonline.com/news/politics-and-military/military/after-removing-metal-detectors-how-will-israel-deal-with-security-30038

But Jaffa saw more violence than us today. Rioters set fire in the streets and attacked police because the police had shot dead an arab criminal suspect. Tensions are high. See
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4995780,00.html
http://www.timesofisrael.com/riots-break-out-in-jaffa-after-police-killing-of-suspect-fleeing-shooting-scene/

Makloubeh today

Remember in winter I said this summer would be full of trouble? ... I was right. Let's hope things will fizzle out as the August heat hits us and the people are generally tired of this unrest and road closures and lockdowns. And for a little distraction from these weighty matters, we had makloubeh for lunch. It's one of my favourite arab dishes ... rice cooked with veggies and chicken.