Jerusalem
As
a history student, it would be improper for me not to begin this by saying that even a 10 minute stroll through the winding cobbled streets of
Jerusalem's Old City, is to follow in the footsteps of some of modern, medieval and ancient
histories' most famous figures. It's also difficult not feel a sense
of wonder in having being shown the most famous sites of monotheistic
religion in the world. History is not confined to the past though,
new chapters are written in every passing moment, and nowhere is this more true than in Jerusalem. On the same streets
where Jesus was said to have walked to his crucifixion, the Wailing Wall is situated, where Saladin rode and Ariel Sharon resided, Israeli soldiers
continue their policy of trying to make some Palestinians a broken
minority. Religious humiliation is the weapon of
choice in this city. Solders routinely stop any Muslim or Arab
looking person en route to holy sites. A practical way from Israel's point of view in maintaining security yes, but also perhaps a symbolic gesture from them, that it will always be a struggle to achieve a comfortable home in Jerusalem for some Palestinians.
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| Entry is Not as Open as it Looks: The Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem. (Photo Courtesy of Emerson Photography) |
The
road leading to Jerusalem was also interesting, as it is
littered with heavily fortified Israeli settlements and checkpoints.
One can only describe these settlements as luxurious looking
compounds guarded by both the IDF and armed settlers. We were told that taxes are made
so low that even those with no religious inclinations are encouraged to move here to enjoy the climate and luxury. For those who have seen
coverage or documentaries on the problem, you know of the reported violence
and racism committed by a vocal minority of those living in similar places, in the name of preserving their right to the land. For those
who haven't, it's well worth researching.
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| Settlements Can Only Make the Road to Peace Longer: Jerusalem, Palestine. (Photo Courtesy of Emerson Photography) |
Seen
as many Palestinians will never want to leave their legitimate homes, it is up to foreign governments to pressurise the Israeli Goverment into steadily winding back its
abuses of human rights, without compromising its State's security. This is not just a matter
of ethics, but global stability, as the abuses appear to fuel a seamlessly
never ending cycle of violence, that we sadly see in the news.
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| Under Occupation, But Still Welcoming: Jerusalem, Palestine. (Photo Courtesy of Emerson Photography) |
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