Thousands to Participate in Jerusalem Day March Marking 57th Reunification Anniversary

As Jerusalem marks the 57th anniversary of its reunification, police have approved plans for the annual flag march to pass through the Old City’s Damascus Gate and Muslim Quarter on its way to the Western Wall. This historic march is set to draw thousands of participants.

Over 3,000 police officers and border guards will be deployed to secure the march and other events scheduled for Wednesday. The march will commence at 4 p.m. from City Hall’s Safra Square, proceeding through the Old City’s gates, including Damascus Gate, before culminating at the Western Wall plaza with a main ceremony at 7 p.m.

“While recent months have seen attempted attacks in the capital, there is currently no specific threat regarding the flag march,” according to a police spokesperson. Nonetheless, stringent security measures will be implemented, including aerial surveillance and undercover operations to ensure the safety of all participants.

Major road closures are expected from 2 p.m., disrupting traffic and public transportation in central Jerusalem. The city’s light rail will operate partially between certain stations from 4:30 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Jerusalem Day commemorates the reunification of the city during the 1967 Six-Day War, an event of profound historical and religious significance for the Jewish people. This year’s celebrations will include guided tours, lectures, and cultural performances highlighting Jerusalem’s rich heritage.

According to data published by Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics ahead of Jerusalem Day, the country’s largest city has surpassed one million residents, adding 13,400 residents last year. Most new residents came from Bnei Brak, Beit Shemesh, and Tel Aviv-Yafo, while these cities, along with Betar Illit, welcomed the most out-migration from Jerusalem.

At the end of 2023, Jews and other non-Arab populations made up 60.5% of Jerusalem’s residents, with Arabs comprising 39.5%. Around 29% of the city’s residents were ultra-Orthodox Jews, representing about half of the non-Arab population.

Jerusalem’s total fertility rate stood at 3.68 children per woman, exceeding the national average of 2.89. The fertility rate for Jewish and other non-Arab Jerusalemites was 4.3, compared to the national average of 2.9. The fertility rate for Arab women in Jerusalem was 2.81, slightly above the national average of 2.75.

The city’s workforce participation rate in 2023 was 52.2%, compared to the national average of 63.5%. Despite this, Jerusalemites reported high levels of life satisfaction, with 91% expressing satisfaction compared to 90% nationally. Satisfaction with work was also high at 87%, slightly below the national average of 89%.

Jerusalem Day remains a poignant reminder of the city's enduring legacy and vibrant culture. The annual flag march and associated events provide an opportunity for reflection and celebration of Jerusalem's unique place in Jewish history.

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