Tensions Mount in Jerusalem as Residents Brace for Potential War
Jerusalem – A palpable anxiety hangs over the Old City of Jerusalem, as residents and business owners grapple with the prospect of escalating conflict in the Middle East. While daily life continues for some, a sense of unease and uncertainty permeates the historic streets, traditionally bustling with tourists.
Mohammed Liftawi, who runs two shops selling clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs near Jaffa Gate, hasn’t made a sale in days. “Jerusalem is very empty,” he said, gesturing to the quiet street. “We have no tourists, we have nothing. They have fled because of the war.” Liftawi, who also weathered the economic downturn of the COVID-19 pandemic, fears another blow to his livelihood. “To be honest, from what I hear, yes I think so [another war is coming]. And nobody likes war.”
The normally vibrant area around the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Jaffa Gate is eerily quiet, a stark contrast to its usual lively atmosphere.
Not all residents share Liftawi’s apprehension. Moshe Cohen, 23, expressed a desire for military action against Iran. “I hope it starts in a few days,” he said, believing that Iran is funding Hamas and that decisive action is needed. “You have to take off the head and make the world a better place.” Cohen believes Israel should act even without U.S. support, stating, “If they [the Americans] don’t want to, then we’ll have to go first.”
Others adopt a more fatalistic outlook. Khalil Al-daqaq, whose family has run a shop near the Holy Church for decades, acknowledges the uncertainty. “It’s tense here. Unexpectedly. We don’t know what’s going to happen in the coming days. Or the next hour. Some people are really scared, but… what will happen, will happen.” He added, “What we are missing over here are logical, sensible guys. For the leaders… we’re just numbers to them.”
Yaakov Simcha, a 21-year-old student from New Jersey studying the Torah, embodies this sentiment. “I have no idea [what will happen]. I’m not nervous or anything. I believe in God, and I believe that whatever he wants to happen is going to happen. It’s his plan. I’m just going to sit back and continue my studies.”
The situation reflects a complex and divided atmosphere within Jerusalem, as residents prepare for an uncertain future.
