The Temple Mount. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

Thousands of Israelis poured into the streets of Jerusalem on Sunday to celebrate the annual Jerusalem Day holiday. The national event, which marks the liberation of the Old City of Jerusalem from Jordanian occupation during the Six-Day War, drew thousands of visitors from all over the country and the world.

The day was observed with street dancing and parades taking place in the city center and in the Old City itself. An official ceremony took place on the historical site of Ammunition Hill, where a crucial battle for the liberation of Jerusalem took place during the Six-Day War.

In preparations for the annual festivities, security forces bolstered their presence in the city – especially around parade routes. This was done in order to reduce friction and prevent clashes between the Jewish youth marching and East Jerusalem  Arab rioters.

Israeli activists held a “Flag Parade” in the Old City which was trailed by a “Flower Parade,” wherein they handed flowers to Arab residents of the Old City as a token of peace and coexistence.

Marring the festivities, a riot still erupted during the parade. Dozens of Arabs arrived at the Damascus Gate and began throwing stones and glass bottles at security forces.