The head of the so-called Home Front Command of the Israeli Military, Gen, Yari Golan, decided on Monday to ban Sheikh Raed Salah, head of the Northern Branch of the Islamic Movement, from entering Jerusalem for three weeks.Golan said that this decision was made “to ensure the security of Israel”, and to maintain “law and order”.
Sheikh Salah was initially detained in 2007 after he gave a speech during a protest against the Israeli violations against the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and Israel’s violations against the city.
The Israeli police claimed that the sheikh “incited violence” when he was referring to clashes between Palestinians and Israeli policemen in the Al Aqsa Mosque.
The Israeli army stated Monday that the decision was based on “information presented by security officials” claiming that his presence in Jerusalem will cause further clashes.
Sheikh Salah will be allowed to appeal the decision, while an army spokesperson said military officials would seek additional six months ban.
The clashes referred to by the Israeli Police and security devices refer to incidents that took place between Muslim worshipers and Israeli policemen due to Israel’s ongoing violations and excavations under the Al Aqsa Mosque, and the ongoing policy of demolishing Palestinian homes.
