Thousands of visitors flocked to the Old City of Jerusalem on Wednesday night as the Festival of Lights flooded the ancient alleys and historic sites with light and color. This year's festival is dedicated to work by Israeli and international artists, who are presenting about 30 different light-related creations and installations. Visual artworks are projected on the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, and the festival also features music and dance events. Palestinian youths organized a counter event at the Damascus Gate in the Old City where they held activities for children and step-dance performances. According to organizers, they reject the light festival activities because of the Israeli identity it forces on what they deem to be the Islamic and Arab identity of the Old City, although the Old City of Jerusalem has been holy to Jews for millennia and is home to the Western Wall, the only visible remains of the Second Temple. Police said four men were arrested. A few were pushed to the ground during the scuffles but no serious injuries were reported.
Credit: Reuters
However, the festival was also the site of scuffles. Police used stun grenades to disperse hundreds of Palestinians who were protesting the festival.
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Old City of Jerusalem ablaze with Festival of Lights, clashes
Annual Festival of Lights uses Old City of Jerusalem as a backdrop for light-related artwork and installations, some of which are projected onto the ancient stone walls • Police use stun grenades to disperse Palestinians protesting Israeli festival.