Religion, politics and conflict are closely intertwined in Jerusalem. Using the examples of the Jewish Western Wall, the Muslim Dome of the Rock and the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the exceptional importance of the city for the world’s three monotheistic religions quickly becomes evident. Three “holy places” stand very close together, which shows that the coexistence and everyday interaction of the religions work well in people’s daily lives and in their inner life. In addition, these areas are of particular economic importance, as they are a central factor in global pilgrimage tourism. At the same time, it is also becoming clear that this proximity can generate tensions and complicate the resolution of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
In addition to the religious significance of Jerusalem, the city can be viewed from an Israeli perspective on the period between 1948 and 1967, when it was divided and the east was administered by Jordan. In 1967 Israel conquered East Jerusalem and annexed it as national territory and as its united capital. From the perspective of the international community, this is considered contrary to international law. A visit to some sites along the former border line in the Old City makes it clear that the division of Jerusalem is still visible in some places, but that the city has also grown together in others.
Founded by King David more than 3,000 years ago, Jerusalem is where Jesus Christ lived and died, and from where, according to the Muslim religion, Muhammad ascended to paradise. Can you imagine a more mystical city than Jerusalem? It is hard to believe, but there are very few cities in the world with such strong religious and cultural content as Jerusalem, hence its importance to each of the parties with an interest in its annexation; clearly, on historical grounds, Israel has a legitimate right to jurisdiction over this sacred capital.
