Jerusalem
Religious leaders offer mixed reactions to Trump’s decision on Jerusalem
By Emily McFarlan Miller — December 6, 2017
(RNS) — Trump's announcement on Wednesday (Dec. 6) followed days of speculation and concern from many that such a move could lead to violence and quash hopes for a U.S.-backed Mideast peace plan. Many religious leaders echoed that concern, while others welcomed the decision — notably Trump's evangelical Christian supporters.
Trump flouts warnings, declares Jerusalem Israel’s capital
By Jerome Socolovsky — December 6, 2017
WASHINGTON (AP) — He also for the first time personally endorsed the concept of a "two-state solution" for Israel and the Palestinians, provided both sides agree to it.
Trump decision on Jerusalem could have deep repercussions
By Jerome Socolovsky — December 6, 2017
JERUSALEM (AP) — Any recognition of Israel's control over the city will be welcomed by Israel and be popular with pro-Israel evangelical Christian voters who make up a key part of Trump's base. But it could also trigger violence in the region and infuriate key allies in the Arab world and in the West.
Pope urges status quo, ‘wisdom and prudence’ for Jerusalem
By Nicole Winfield — December 6, 2017
VATICAN CITY (AP) — Francis said he was 'profoundly concerned' about recent developments concerning Jerusalem and declared the city a unique and sacred place for Christians, Jews and Muslims that has a 'special vocation for peace.'
Don’t mess around with Jerusalem
By Jeffrey Salkin — December 5, 2017
(RNS) — Jerusalem is holy. That should be enough for us.
Trump forges ahead on Jerusalem despite warnings of violence
By Jerome Socolovsky — December 5, 2017
JERUSALEM (AP) — Turkey threatened to cut ties with Israel, the Palestinians warned they would halt contacts with their U.S. counterparts — and key Washington ally Saudi Arabia spoke out strongly against such a possible step.
Jerusalem cemetery goes deep underground with tunnel burials
By Isaac Scharf — November 17, 2017
JERUSALEM (AP) — Tunnels stretching more than a kilometer (half-mile) in length beneath Jerusalem's main cemetery have been carefully dug over the past two years to make room for some 22,000 graves — enough space to meet the city's needs for the next decade.
You don’t have to be Jewish to love Israel
By Jeffrey Salkin — October 30, 2017
If it weren't for two pious Christians, Israel would never have been born.
New film on Mark Twain highlights his religious doubts
By Kimberly Winston — October 16, 2017
(RNS) — A trip to the Holy Land in 1867 launched Twain from local journalist to international satirist and cemented his skepticism of organized religion.
Yes, I kissed the Western Wall
By Jeffrey Salkin — July 30, 2017
JERUSALEM (RNS ) — The Western Wall still moves me. Call me sentimental.
Archaeologists find more evidence of Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem
By Michele Chabin — July 28, 2017
JERUSALEM (RNS) — The results of the excavation, carried out in Jerusalem’s Old City, come days before Tisha B’Av, a fast day commemorating the anniversary of the destruction the First Temple.
Muslims hold street protests, prayers near Jerusalem shrine
By Yonat Shimron — July 21, 2017
JERUSALEM (AP) — Muslim leaders had urged the faithful not to enter the sacred compound until Israel removes the detectors, portraying Israel's measures as an encroachment on Muslim rights — a charge Israel denies.
Metal detectors at Jerusalem shrine trigger new tensions
By Jerome Socolovsky — July 19, 2017
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel says they're needed after a Palestinian attack. Palestinians claim Israel is trying to expand control over the Muslim-run site that is also revered by Jews.
The good news from Israel
By Jeffrey Salkin — July 17, 2017
The biggest news from Israel is not the Wall and conversion. It is about how secularists are claiming Judaism for themselves, and for all of us.
2 Israeli policemen killed in shooting near Jerusalem shrine
By Yonat Shimron — July 14, 2017
JERUSALEM (AP) — The rare attack from within the contested shrine, revered by both Muslims and Jews, raised new concerns about an escalation of violence.
