Jerusalem Day March Turns Violent: Anti-Arab Slogans and Attacks on Press

Jerusalem Day March Marked by Anti-Arab Slogans and Attacks on Journalists Jerusalem, May 27, 2025 – The annual Jerusalem Day Flag March took a volatile turn this year as ultra-nationalist Israeli Jews marched through the Old City, chanting anti-Arab slogans and engaging in aggressive behavior towards journalists. CNN's Oren Liebermann, reporting from the scene, described a tense atmosphere with a significant police presence attempting to manage the crowd. "Members of the crowd were seen spitting on journalists, including a CNN producer," Liebermann reported. He also noted the presence of banners with provocative messages such as "1967 Jerusalem in our hands" and "2025 Gaza is in our hands." These slogans, Liebermann explained, refer to Israel's seizure of East Jerusalem in the Six-Day War and express aspirations for future control over Gaza. The chants heard throughout the march included overtly hateful phrases such as "Arabs are sons of bitches" and "We hate all Arabs." These statements, Liebermann noted, reflect the deeply entrenched nationalist sentiment within a segment of the Israeli population. The march, while a yearly event, has become increasingly contentious in recent years, highlighting the ongoing conflict and tensions in the region. The heavy police presence underscores the potential for violence and the authorities' efforts to maintain order and prevent further escalation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the deep divisions and ongoing challenges to peace in Jerusalem.