(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)
“Elbow room” for the large number of Jewish worshippers who gather at the Western Wall of the Temple, commonly known as the Wailing Wall, was demanded by Jewish Orthodox leaders in connection with the approaching High Holidays, when the attendance at the Wall reaches its height.
In an appeal issued today to Jewish organizations, it is pointed out that in order to assure the safety of the worshippers and the thousands of visitors who flock to Jerusalem for the holidays, it is necessary to enlarge the square in front of the Wailing Wall. The approach to the wall is now obstructed by Arab houses. The appeal urges that the surrounding houses be removed and that their owners be compensated. This plan should be carried out by the Jerusalem authorities, under the provisions of the recently promulgated government ordinance for the expropriation of property for public purposes, the appeal urges.
The question of clearing the way to the Wailing Wall was raised some time ago during the tenure of office of former High Commissioner Sir Herbert Samuel but no action was taken at that time.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
