Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently inaugurated a new underground tunnel in Jerusalem. The news triggered an uproar across Palestine and worldwide. Many believe the tunnel is not a simple archaeological project but an attempt to alter Jerusalem’s identity and displace Palestinians. This article delves into the details of the tunnel and explores why its inauguration has caused such controversy.
The tunnel is approximately 600 meters long, starting in Jerusalem’s Silwan neighborhood and ending near the Western Wall, also known as the Buraq Wall. The Israeli government and an organization called the City of David claim it is an ancient religious and historical site. However, Palestinians and human rights groups say the excavation is occurring directly beneath their homes and neighborhoods. This not only weakens their houses but also threatens the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the most sacred places for Muslims.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque is at risk because the tunnel being excavated by Israel passes very close to and under the mosque. This excavation is weakening the foundations of old houses and the ground. Experts say that continuous excavation could cause the ground to collapse and shake the mosque’s foundation, affecting its walls and structure. Palestinians fear that Israel will gradually change the map of the area under this pretext and erase the identity around the mosque.
The participation of US Secretary of State Rubio in the inauguration has raised serious questions. Many experts believe that his presence signifies open US support for Israel. Some consider it a violation of international law. The United Nations has clearly stated that East Jerusalem is an occupied territory, but Rubio’s presence suggests that the US is giving Israel a green light.
This tunnel is linked to a site called the City of David, operated by a Jewish settler organization called Elad. The organization is accused of evicting Palestinians by buying or occupying their homes and gradually turning the area into a Jewish settlement. A United Nations report has also stated that Elad’s activities are against the law. Pro-Israel supporters call it an ancient religious site, but many human rights organizations see it as politically motivated. The Israeli organization Peace Now said that Rubio’s visit means that the US is fully recognizing Israel’s claim over Jerusalem.
