Israel closes schools, announces closed military zones in Jerusalem

The Israeli army announced new military zones in occupied East Jerusalem yesterday, closing shops and schools, Felesteen newspaper reported.

According to the Palestinian daily, the Israeli army announced Ras Al-Jabal area in the East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Jabal Al-Mukaber a closed military zone, spread snipers on rooftops and settlements, closed shops and imposed curfews.

The move was to secure a visit of a senior Israeli government official to the area, the army said.

Meanwhile, the Israeli army closed the neighbourhood of Ras Al-Amood in Silwan, south of Al-Aqsa Mosque, for the third day, closing schools.

Wadi Hilweh Information Centre said the closure also labours, traders and employees great difficulty in making their way to work.

The situation caused renewed clashes between school students and the Israeli soldiers stationed at the new checkpoints setup around the area. The Israeli soldiers fired tear gas and rubber bullets, injuring a number of students, the centre said.

Israel set up three military posts in Ras Al-Amood three weeks ago. They were placed at entrances leading to 12 schools, and four kindergartens. Around 5,000 students have been unable to attend school.

On Tuesday, the Israeli army attempted to storm a number of schools in the area, but the administrations stopped them. The soldiers had a warrant to investigate one of the headmasters.

Yesterday, Israeli soldiers positioned themselves around Al-Issawiya’s main streets, they claimed this was an attempt to stop Palestinian youths throwing stones.