Jerusalem police officials continue releasing statements that Arab terror attacks are down, but this does not appear to be the case in many areas, including the Armon HaNatziv neighborhood in the southern capital. In fact, the residents of Meir Nakar Street in the neighborhood are fed up with the deteriorating security as firebomb attacks from neighboring Jabil Mukhaber are commonplace. In the past week, there were 24 firebomb attacks against apartments in Armon HaNatziv. B’chasdei Hashem there were no fatalities or injuries.

In one attack on Monday, 23 Elul, a firebomb ignited in a yard of a home and a fire broke out. The residents decided they have had enough and they are bringing sleeping bags and tents to City Hall to establish a protest encampment. “We do not feel safe in our homes so perhaps in City Hall, which is full of security personnel, one can close ones eyes” angry residents explain.

Police officials insist resources are being allocated to Armon HaNatziv but residents explain that for as long as attacks continue, the problem needs to be addressed. Police are working with border police and uniformed and uncover units are operating in the community. Residents are uninterested explanations and wish to see results, not promises from police or City Hall officials.

Elsewhere in the capital, rock-throwing attacks against the light rail have become daily occurrences in the Shuafat area. In addition, there are frequent rock attacks against buses heading to and from the Kosel as well as against motorists traveling on the Jerusalem – Maale Adumim Road.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)