By order of Ben Gvir: Occupation authorities close 'Burj al-Luqluq' association in Jerusalem for the second time
Israeli occupation authorities closed the headquarters of the 'Burj al-Luqluq Community Association' in occupied Jerusalem for the second time this year, by order of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, for six months. The association denounced the closure, describing it as arbitrary and a systematic targeting of Old City institutions.
Israeli occupation authorities closed the headquarters of the 'Burj al-Luqluq Community Association' in occupied Jerusalem on Tuesday for six months, in the second such action by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir since last February. Local sources reported that occupation police forces stormed the association's premises in the Old City of Jerusalem and affixed a closure order to its door for the second time for six months. According to the Wadi Hilweh Information Center in Jerusalem, under the decision all association facilities are closed except for kindergartens. Located in the Old City, Burj al-Luqluq is one of the most prominent community centers in Jerusalem, offering educational, sports, and cultural programs for children and youth, along with social activities and educational support courses. Ben Gvir claimed in the order posted at the association's entrance that it operates 'under the auspices of the Palestinian Authority or on its behalf,' which the association denies. The association expressed in a statement its 'utmost dismay and denunciation of the arbitrary closure of its headquarters again today in Bab Hutta in the Old City of Jerusalem.' This is the second time Ben Gvir has issued orders to close the Palestinian association, following a previous decision in February, as part of measures Palestinians consider targeting their institutions in East Jerusalem.