A nation already on edge endures two bus tragedies
Eight people were wounded in the attack, including a 35-year-old pregnant woman. The woman underwent an emergency C-section to deliver the baby, and both are in serious condition. A 60-year-old man is also in serious condition; he and four of the other victims are American citizens.
The terrorist, Amir Sidawi, was an East Jerusalem resident with a blue passport.
In general, Arabs in East Jerusalem are considered extremely anti-Israeli, and most identify as Palestinian. Hence, while East Jerusalem residents can apply for Israeli citizenship, only 5 percent have done so, the rest holding the status of “permanent residents.”
Although they refuse to acquire Israeli citizenship, and consider Arabs who do “traitors,” they’re full of complaints about discrimination in every area, from construction permits and demolitions to the heavy hand of the border police. The harassment to which young Arabs from East Jerusalem routinely subject Jews walking to the Kosel is viewed as a legitimate part of their struggle for the city.
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