As the number of new coronavirus cases in Israel's Arab sector continues to mushroom, more officials are criticizing the decision to continue to allow public prayer on the Temple Mount every Friday, which is attended by some 12,000 faithful.
The Muslim Waqf, which is charged with enforcing Israel's public health regulations, does make sure that worshippers on the Temple Mount wear masks and maintain social distancing. The prayers themselves are held in the open air.
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However, this past Friday, the weekly prayers turned into a mass demonstration against France and French President Emmanuel Macron, part of a backlash throughout most of the Muslim world against the government taking a stance in favor of upholding free speech and allowing the republication of cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad.
Worshippers at the Temple Mount crowded together, against the Health Ministry instructions, and police forces were forced to disperse the gathering. Three people were arrested for allegedly disturbing the peace.
Both the Arab leadership in Israel and the Health Ministry are worried about the spread of coronavirus in that sector. Outgoing coronavirus chief Professor Ronni Gamzu announced that the next two weeks would be devoted almost entirely to stopping the spread of the virus in Arab communities.
"We will devote most of our resources this coming week to the Arab sector. Dozens of coronavirus testing stations will open in Arab communities, and residents will not have to provide a doctor's referral or any payment. We want everyone in the Arab sector to be tested," Gamzu said.
Ayman Saif, the official who oversees the government's fight against coronavirus in the Arab sector, confirmed that wedding season had led to a spike in coronavirus cases among Israel's Arab population.
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