Jerusalem:Businesses in Jerusalem, particularly in the Old City and around the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, are experiencing worsening economic conditions due to closure policies, movement restrictions, and practices related to Jewish holidays.
According to Palestine news and Information Agency, these challenging circumstances have been compounded since October 7, 2023, by a significant decline in tourism and visitor numbers, creating a severe economic crisis for merchants.
The Jerusalem Governorate explained that the impact of Jewish holidays extends beyond road closures and citizen movement restrictions. Merchants, restaurant owners, hotel operators, artisans, and those in the tourism and transportation sectors are all affected. Many merchants close their shops due to imposed restrictions or fear of attacks during settlers' marches and gatherings in the Old City.
During these holidays, the repetitive scene of street closures and limited access to markets restricts citizens' ability to reach shops, leaving merchants with difficult choices open their shops amid a tense security environment or close them and incur financial losses.
The Governorate confirmed that these challenges exacerbate an already unprecedented tourism crisis since October 7, 2023. The decline in tourism has significantly harmed the city's economy, affecting not only hotels and tourist shops but also tour guides, transportation providers, and other related sectors.
Economic assessments reveal substantial damage to tourist shops in the Old City, with many remaining closed due to the drop in tourist numbers. The Jewish holidays add further strain, coinciding with security measures and restricted market access.
The Governorate warned that ongoing policies could gradually diminish the Old City's Palestinian commercial and tourist presence, affecting the city's economy and cultural heritage. It called for an open city with genuine tourist seasons and security that protects rather than restricts.
The Jerusalem Governorate urged the international community to consider the broader economic implications of the crisis and emphasized the need for a resolution that allows Jerusalem's markets and tourism to recover without fear and restrictions.