Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat on Monday, 22 Adar, met with Deputy Mayor Chaim Epstein of the Bnei Torah party following protests on erev Shabbos which intentionally tried to disrupt the annual Jerusalem marathon.

The mayor did not take favorably to the actions of chareidim affiliated with the Peleg Yerushalmi branch, trying to disrupt the marathon, and he suspended Epstein from his post and activities for thirty days in response.

The mayor is extending this to his staff and associates, informing city officials not to take any instructions from him during the suspension period.

The mayor explained to Epstein the efforts by protestors were illegal and contrary to police instructions, as well as posing a danger to public safety.

Bnei Torah officials responded to the mayor’s decision, vowing the protests would continue as planned, including in Jerusalem even when they disrupt events.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)