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Jerusalem - The Ongoing Fight Over the Holy City

January 27, 2025

Now, more than over, Jerusalem finds itself in the eye of the storm that is the Middle East conflict. The most populous city in Israel is a holy place for Christians, Jews and Muslims.

https://p.dw.com/p/4pAJO
Jerusalem - The Ongoing Fight Over the Holy City
The so-called Wailing Wall is the most important religious site for Jews. Its significance is derived from its proximity to the Jewish Temple, which was destroyed in 70 AD; the wall is part of the western supporting foundation and is generally believed to be the closest site to the Holy of Holies of the destroyed Temple.Image: Arte France

And claims to its historic sites are the subject of furious dispute between Israelis and Palestinians.

Jerusalem - The Ongoing Fight Over the Holy City
Image: Arte France

The documentary sheds light on the political and religious background to the conflict over Jerusalem and places the current events in their historical context. Those involved have their say and experts comment on the current situation.

Jerusalem - The Ongoing Fight Over the Holy City
The Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City is considered the third most important mosque in Islam.Image: Arte France

Hamas named its 7 October terrorist attack on Israel ‘Operation Al-Aqsa Flood’ in reference to the famous Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. In doing so, the Islamists are once again focusing global attention on the Holy City.

Both sides lay claim to the Temple Mount, a place of religious significance for both communities. This is why Jerusalem has always been at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian confrontation. Middle East experts agree on one point: without a solution for Jerusalem, which both Israelis and Palestinians claim as the capital of their state, or possible future state, this conflict will not be resolved.

Jerusalem - The Ongoing Fight Over the Holy City
Image: Arte France

The documentary, which was made after 7 October, investigates one of the most profound conflicts of our time. It explores invisible borders, sheds light on the failed UN partition plan and tells of the eternal battle for the holy sites on Temple Mount.

Jerusalem - The Ongoing Fight Over the Holy City
Image: Arte France

The film depicts a city where people co-exist without hatred, where a modern ‘start-up nation’ rubs shoulders with ancient culture - and where hope has not yet been completely extinguished. 

Broadcasting Hours: 

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SAT 08.02.2025 – 11:03 UTC
SAT 08.02.2025 – 22:03 UTC
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