Uri Erlich: Smashed tombstones in Jerusalem – vandalism at the ancient Muslim cemetery

The article describes severe vandalism at the ancient Mamilla Muslim cemetery in Jerusalem, criticizing state authorities for neglect and destruction of the historic site. The author, Uri Erlich, a left-wing activist, notes that centuries-old graves were smashed, human bones exposed, and areas burned, while the Israel Antiquities Authority claims it is aware of the matter and is monitoring it.

Uri Erlich's article exposes severe vandalism at the ancient Mamilla Muslim cemetery in Jerusalem. According to him, in recent months, under the cover of fences erected under the pretext of conservation work, centuries-old graves were smashed, human bones exposed, and areas burned. The author, a left-wing activist and former journalist, sharply criticizes the Israel Antiquities Authority, which responded laconically that the matter is known to them and they are closely monitoring it, without taking practical steps. The article compares the treatment of this site to how an ancient Jewish cemetery in Europe would be treated, arguing that the commitment to preserving the past stops when the history does not tell a Jewish story. The article mentions the history of the cemetery, which was active from the 11th century to the 20th century, and that out of 130 dunams, only about 20 remain, after parts were converted into Independence Park, roads, and parking lots, and allocated for the Museum of Tolerance.