Eleven apartments that were legally purchased in Jerusalem’s Shiloach neighborhood, known in the media by the Arab name Silwan, were occupied by their new Jewish tenants during the night of 6 Tishrei 5775 (Monday/Tuesday). The move represents progress in ongoing efforts to liberate predominately Arab areas of the capital by purchasing the homes and permitting Jews to settle. Shiloach is located across from the Kosel, near the City of David.

The move comes at a time when Arab violence in the eastern areas of the capital is on the rise. Daily attacks are reported against the Jerusalem light rail, kevarim in Har HaZeisim and against mispallalim heading to and from the Kosel and the Old City.

Nevertheless, the Elad organization along with other NGOs remain tenacious in efforts to settle Jews in areas occupied by Arabs, using legal means to accomplish the goal.

This transaction was reportedly carried out by the American Kandel Finance Company. The legal sale has cleared the way for Jewish youths to move into the apartments to establish a Jewish presence in the predominately Arab area. The move was done during the nighttime hours to avoid any confrontation with Arab residents. A sizable police force was on hand, and that force was attacked with stones. Police responded appropriately. One Yassam officer was struck in the head with a rock.

Kendal attorney Avi Segal is quoted by Walla News explaining the apartments were legally purchased and as such, there is no reason the Jewish tenants cannot move in.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)