Jerusalem: Israeli occupation forces closed the Burj al-Luqluq Community Association headquarters in Jerusalem's Old City for six months on Tuesday. The Jerusalem Governorate reported that occupation forces stormed the association's headquarters in the Old City, handed its administration a closure order for six months, and then proceeded to weld the doors shut, preventing entry.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the Jerusalem Governorate considered the Israeli occupation forces' decision a dangerous escalation in the policy of targeting Palestinian national institutions in Jerusalem. It is viewed as a direct blow to the city's residents' right to a dignified life, community development, and safe spaces for children and youth.
The governorate added that the association has served as a vital resource for thousands of children, youth, and women for over three decades, particularly in the Bab Hutta neighborhood and surrounding areas. This is achieved through comprehensive sports, cultural, social, and educational programs, including football, basketball, judo, taekwondo, women's empowerment initiatives, strengthening Jerusalemite identity among youth, and supporting local businesses. The association also operates a kindergarten, a computer lab, life skills programs, and a pottery workshop. The number of daily beneficiaries of the association's facilities ranges from 300 to 500 participants, making it one of the largest community initiatives within the walls of the Old City.
The governorate affirmed that the Burj Al-Laqlaq Association, established in 1991 on lands adjacent to the historic wall of the Old City and with an area of approximately 9.5 dunams-the second largest open area within the walls of the Old City after the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque-is not just a service center but a symbol of Jerusalemite steadfastness. The association originally arose to protect the land from a colonial plan that aimed to establish 240 colonial units, before it was confronted by Jerusalemite national figures through field presence and popular activities until ownership was established for Jerusalemite families.
