The mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Leon, referred in an interview to Yoman Hatzaharyim on Galei Tzahal to the flag parade and explained that the parade was supposed to be on Jerusalem Day and was canceled under special circumstances and therefore is being held today.
"I'm sure he will pass quietly," he said. "I do not accept the equation that Hamas creates between Jerusalem and Gaza. Israel is the sovereign and it decides whether to hold a parade or not. What is the connection between the flag parade and missile fire by Hamas? Tomorrow Jews will be banned from walking in the Muslim Quarter because otherwise there will be missiles. I am for the parade, it is a legitimate procession. "