Arik Ascherman Released From Prison

Rabbis for Human Rights’ Executive Director, Rabbi Arik Ascherman, was released from prison on Friday upon signing a restraining order agreeing not to organize demonstrations in Silwan in the next fifteen days. His lawyers said the restraining order will be appealed.

A private archaeological firm Elad has been digging in Silwan in areas for which they have no license. Arab residents say that some of the work is taking place under their very homes. On Wednesday, scuffles broke out between members of the Elad team and Arab residents protesting the dig. One Palestinian resident was arrested and one Elad defender was hospitalized. Police arrested Rabbi Ascherman when he refused to agree not to help organize the residents of Silwan.

The neighborhood of Silwan lies just south of the Temple Mount. It is an old Arab neighborhood with some Jewish residents. The neighborhood was peaceful until the start of activities by Elad. The archaeological dig has discovered a roadway that may have been built in the Herodian period for use by pilgrims as they approached the Temple.