Dov Kalmanovich, the deputy mayor of Jerusalem and the official responsible for Jewish culture in the capital, has praised the decision to close Cinema City on Shabbat.
"The other name for Shabbat is The Peace, and it is important to increase peace, particularly in Jerusalem," said Kalmanovich. "Maintaining the status quo in the the State of Israel's capital city has unequaled importance. I ask the owners of Yes Planet to also take steps in the direction of peace and to close the 16 screens in their facility for Shabbat. If this is their decision, I will encourage Jerusalemites who are lovers of cinema to enjoy the facility."
He added that "There is no political victory here. There is an achievement towards the special unity of Jerusalem. The love of Shabbat has won. As one who began the project Returning and Staying in Jerusalem, I am happy to continue placing our city above any other place in the State of Israel, and acting on behalf of those who leave the city."