Jerusalem Clashes During Annual Flag March: Reuters Report

Jerusalem Day Flag March and Clashes

• ⚡ Clashes erupted in Jerusalem's Old City during the annual Flag March, commemorating Israel's capture of East Jerusalem in the 1967 war.
• 🎯 Marchers, primarily young Israelis from West Bank settlements, reportedly targeted left-wing activists and journalists.
• ⚠️ Witnesses described marchers clashing with activists who were attempting to escort Palestinians away from aggressive far-right Israeli Jews.

Political Reactions and Gaza Conflict

• 🗣️ A Palestinian presidency spokesperson condemned the march and the visit of National Security Minister Ben Gvir to Al-Aqsa.
• 💥 The march is noted for frequently increasing tensions as it passes through Palestinian areas en route to the Western Wall.
• 🕊️ The ongoing war in Gaza has intensified, with recent Israeli military campaigns following the end of a January ceasefire agreement with Hamas.

Hostage Negotiations and Ceasefire Efforts

• 💬 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Hamas is being "stubborn" regarding hostage releases and vowed to defeat those threatening Israel and eradicate Hamas.
• 🤝 A Palestinian official claimed Hamas agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal by US envoy Steve Witoff, which an Israeli official denied, stating no Israeli government could accept it.
• ❓ Witoff himself rejected the notion that Hamas had accepted his offer, clarifying the discussed proposal was not his own.
• ⚖️ The Palestinian official indicated the proposal involved releasing 10 hostages for a 70-day ceasefire, while Hamas stated willingness for permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal in exchange for all hostages.