Sunday 29 May 2011

Zionist rebuilding destroys economy and tourism in Jerusalem

The Jerusalem Centre for Social and Economic Rights has declared a "disaster" in the Old City's commercial and tourism sectors after Israel used hefty taxes and other pressures to shut down 250 shops in the past few years. JCSER director Ziyad al-Hammouri expected the situation to worsen as the campaign to Judaize the Old City thrives. "What is taking place is designed to promote the presence of Jewish settlements inside the city walls and the entire area surrounding the Old City, especially in Silwan, Ras al-Amud, and Sheikh Jarrah, which are neighbourhoods geographically connected to the Old City. There is also a plan to erect shopping centres and hotels in the area similar to those built near the Gate of Al-Khalil," Hammouri added.
Jerusalem On Tuesday 31st May, Mayor Nir Barakat on said the municipality would continue to build Jewish-only housing in the occupied city. he told Israel Radio that all construction plans would be completed regardless of "political issues."