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Peaceful Jerusalem Pride Amidst Tight Security
Thousands of Israelis marched calmly Thursday in Jerusalem's longest gay pride parade despite opposition from anti-gay demonstrators.
The Jerusalem Pride parade has been marred by violence in
the past. In 2005, an Orthodox Jewish protester stabbed three marchers. Organisers
said the fear of attack still keeps many people at home.
Thousands of police were on hand to oversee the march.
Brandishing banners with slogans like ‘Holyland not
Homoland’, anti-gay protesters left their feelings in no doubt.
“People that are sick, people that are doing things that are
against the Bible, against God, in the Holy City, is something that is
desecrating the city,” said Orthodox protester Baruch Marzel.
Three right-wing activists were detained for questioning
when they were found with eggs, which it was suspected they planned to throw at
the march participants.
But parade participants say there are signs the climate in
Jerusalem is changing.
"I don't think it's dangerous anymore," said Yair
Lieberman, 23. "But even if there's danger, that shouldn't stop us from
walking."