Police protecting marchers
Police protecting marchersWoman in Green

'Woman in Green' co-founders Nadia Matar and Yehudit Katzover sent a letter to the Israeli Police thanking them for permitting the traditional Tisha B'Av march to take place, despite the charged atmosphere in the capital following the metal detector controversy on the Temple Mount.

"With the successful conclusion of the traditional march of Tisha B'Av night around the walls of the Old City, which was attended by thousands of marchers this year, I would like to thank you from my heart," read the missive, which was addressed to Israel Police head Roni Alsheikh and Jerusalem District Commander Yoram Halevi.

"This year, despite the warnings and intimidation that preceded it, the march went on as usual, without interference, and we owe you our thanks and appreciation for this."

"We hope that we will enjoy this cooperation for years to come" the letter concluded.

Police had considered canceling the traditional march around the walls of the city due to the tense atmosphere and fears of Arab violence. Security forces had received word of mass riots being planned, and there were calls on social media to 'Stop the settlers from walking to the Western Wall.'

Commander Yoram Halevi eventually gave the go-ahead,and thousands showed up to the 23 year old event, including Knesset members. Matar and Katzover had praised the decision, saying that "It is brave, moral, and the obvious thing to do"