Clashes rage in Silwan [with photos http://silwanic.net/?p=14814

Dozens of Palestinians marched in Silwan village today [Friday] in condemnation of Israeli siege on the Gaza Strip and collective punishment of Palestinians living in Gaza, with many joining from the public prayer at the threatened Al-Bustan protest tent. Clashes erupted between Palestinian youth and Israeli armed forces, with police and army units closing off the Wadi Rababa entrance to Silwan since early morning heightening tensions. The busy Wadi Rababa thoroughfare links the Al-Thouri district to West Jerusalem.Israeli forces fired tear gas at protesters in ‘Ein Silwan district at Samer Sarhan Street. A heavy presence of Israeli troops was also found near Israeli settlements in Wadi Hilweh area.

Peaceful demonstration in Sheikh Jarrah http://silwanic.net/?p=14843

Dozens of Palestinian citizens marched alongside Israeli and international left-wing activists in the weekly demonstration in Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of Jerusalem yesterday. While the march is generally under tight control of Israeli forces, yesterday witnessed a quiet atmosphere. No protesters were arrested. The weekly Friday demonstrations in Sheikh Jarrah started in 2009 in opposition the the gradual annexation of Palestinian homes and land by Israeli settler groups.