Fact Check: Police close Jerusalem Old City businesses due to ongoing war.

Fact Check: Police Close Jerusalem Old City Businesses Due to Ongoing War

What We Know

The claim that police have closed businesses in Jerusalem's Old City due to the ongoing war is supported by several sources. Following the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Iran, police have indeed restricted business operations in the Old City. According to a report from Haaretz, police have prevented business owners in the Old City from opening their shops while many businesses in other parts of Jerusalem remain operational. Additionally, the police have closed the gates to the Old City, complicating access for non-residents.

The impact of these closures is significant, as the Old City is home to approximately 664 businesses, many of which have suffered due to the restrictions. A report from Jerusalem Story highlights that these closures have affected not only the shops within the Old City but also those in the surrounding commercial areas.

Analysis

While the claim is largely accurate, it is essential to consider the context and implications of these closures. The decision to close businesses in the Old City appears to be a direct response to the heightened security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict. The police's actions are framed as necessary for maintaining public safety during a time of war, as noted in the Haaretz article.

However, the closures have raised concerns about the disproportionate impact on Palestinian-owned businesses in the Old City. Reports from Al Jazeera indicate that these restrictions have been perceived as part of a broader strategy that disproportionately affects Palestinian residents and businesses, contributing to a sense of siege in the area.

The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is generally high, with established news organizations like Haaretz and Al Jazeera providing detailed coverage of the situation. However, it is important to recognize the potential for bias, particularly in reporting that involves sensitive geopolitical issues. For instance, while Haaretz is known for its critical stance on Israeli government policies, Al Jazeera often emphasizes Palestinian perspectives, which may influence the framing of the narrative.

Conclusion

The claim that police have closed Jerusalem Old City businesses due to the ongoing war is Partially True. While it is accurate that police have enforced closures in the Old City, the broader context of these actions—particularly their impact on Palestinian businesses and the rationale behind them—adds complexity to the situation. The closures are a response to security concerns during a time of conflict, but they also reflect ongoing tensions and disparities in how different communities are affected by such measures.