The significance of Jerusalem Day stems from the capture of East Jerusalem, including the Old City and its holy sites, by Israeli forces during the Six-Day War. This event marked the first time in nearly 2,000 years that Jerusalem was under Jewish sovereignty in its entirety, as the Old City had been under Jordanian control since the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Jerusalem holds immense religious, historical, and cultural significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. It is home to sacred sites such as the Western Wall (the holiest site in Judaism), the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection), and the Dome of the Rock (a revered site in Islam).
On Jerusalem Day, Israelis celebrate the reunification of their capital with various ceremonies, events, and festivities. This includes religious services, flag marches, parades through the streets of Jerusalem, and visits to the Western Wall and other holy sites. However, while Jerusalem Day is a cause for celebration in Israel, it is viewed differently by Palestinians and much of the international community. Thus, while Jerusalem Day is a time for Israelis to celebrate the reunification of their capital, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing political and religious tensions surrounding the city, highlighting the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the quest for peace in the region.