Witness accounts, shared via social media and later corroborated by human rights organizations, described a chaotic scene as Israeli forces entered the wedding venue. The reasons for the raid remain contested. Israeli police stated the operation was conducted in response to alleged disturbances and the throwing of projectiles at officers in the area, though no evidence has yet been provided. Palestinian attendees, however, claim the raid was unprovoked and constituted an excessive use of force.
"They came in without warning, firing stun grenades into the crowd," said one attendee, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal. "People were dancing and celebrating, and then suddenly there was chaos. They arrested the groom and several of his friends."
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions in East Jerusalem, which Israel annexed following the 1967 Six-Day War, a move not recognized by the international community. Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. The area has been a frequent site of clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian residents.
Human rights organizations have condemned the raid and called for an investigation into the use of force by Israeli forces. "The use of live ammunition and stun grenades at a wedding ceremony is a clear violation of international law and demonstrates a disregard for the safety and well-being of Palestinian civilians," stated a spokesperson for Amnesty International.
The Israeli police have not yet released the names of those detained or specified the charges against them. As of this report, the detainees remain in custody, and their legal representatives are seeking access to them. The incident is likely to further inflame tensions in the region and complicate ongoing efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
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