For residents of Kiryat Yovel, the opening of a parking lot by Jerusalem City Hall may be of interest, but their battle is right at home, in their own neighborhood, with the growing frum community facing formidable protests and a legal battle from secularists who remain opposed to their presence, which is resulting in a slow but steady change in the character of the once secular neighborhood.

Mayor Nir Barkat has frozen an eviction order for one shul, while the battle wages on a second, in addition to the protests against the eruv. Last shabbos, secularists protested against the eruv, carrying signs that included “This is Not Iran”.

The city council voted in a new eruv to include many areas, but it appears not all of Kiryat Yovel will be included. Adding to the problem is the fact that after the new eruv is erected; the existing one will be taken down.

It appears the mayor is working to find a solution that will permit the shuls to continue operating within the framework of zoning and other laws.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)