Webcam diplomacy

Israel has started to broadcast live footage of an archaeological dig at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem in an attempt to demonstrate that the foundations of the site are not under threat.

Fighting between Palestinians and Israeli police broke out last Friday after Muslim groups claimed that the mosque would be damaged. Work to replace a broken wooden ramp was suspended, but excavations continued.

Israel denies that the work presents any risk of damage, and now the country’s government is trying to show that it has nothing to hide. Anyone with internet access will be able to see video from the site for 24 hours a day.

It has also called in more traditional back-up in case the webcam doesn’t set Palestinian minds at rest. The Israeli police force has deployed 3,000 officers in the area surrounding the mosque in preparation for Friday prayers.

Comments

[Gillian Rose]

I would like to point out that the work being undertaken is right at the Western Wall, next to the Temple Mount (known to Muslims as Al Aqsa Mosque). This is Judaism's most precious and revered Holy Site.

(You can see the precise location on live streaming webcam, at www.thekotel.org)

Since the time of exile, we have been praying, every year at Passover- next Year in Jerusalem.
This is not a political position - this is Judaism.

There is no way on earth Israel would risk any harm to the site, as is it the centrepoint of our religion - the reason why we face Jerusalem when we pray.

[steve]

If only the politicians could have web cams recording their actions round the clock too. Then we might be sure they are not damaging our country.