Israel orders six-month closure of historic East Jerusalem community center

2026-02-17 - 11:45

Israeli authorities Tuesday ordered the six-month closure of the Burj al-Laqlaq Community Association in the Old City of occupied East Jerusalem, its director Munther Idkeidek confirmed to Anadolu. Police forces raided the historic landmark and delivered a closure order signed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Allegations Denied The order claims "activity of the Palestinian Authority, or on its behalf or under its sponsorship, was taking place at Burj al-Laqlaq without written authorization." Idkeidek vehemently rejected the accusation: "This is completely false and has no basis whatsoever." He stated a team of lawyers would challenge the decision. Historic Site, Community Hub Burj al-Laqlaq, dating to the Ayyubid and Ottoman periods, sits on 9.5 dunams adjacent to the Old City wall with a clear view of Al-Aqsa Mosque. Established in 1991 to "preserve the land... from Israeli settlements," it has become one of East Jerusalem's largest associations, hosting sports, intellectual, and social activities for 300-500 daily visitors—including a soccer field, basketball court for girls' training, and martial arts programs. The site holds symbolic importance as the only East Jerusalem location where the Palestinian Legislative Council convened in 1998. Context of Escalating Measures The closure follows Sunday's Israeli government approval to register vast West Bank areas as "state property"—the first such measure since 1967. Palestinians warn these actions pave the way for formal West Bank annexation, extinguishing prospects for a UN-backed Palestinian state. Israel has closed dozens of Palestinian institutions in East Jerusalem over the years.