Some Christian churches close in Jerusalem

The Israeli government failed in its last attempt to persuade officials from Christian churches to cancel their decision to close some holy places today to protest the Israeli government's decision to allow the construction of a mosque in El-Nasera (Nazareth), next to a church where the Christians believe the Virgin Mary was told she would give birth to Jesus Christ.

This closing will be taken despite the confirmations of Israeli Minister of the Interior Shlomo Ben-Ali that the interests of the Christians will be considered.

The sources said the Christian churches feel that the Israeli government neglected their rights because it mostly wanted to win the contentment of the Islamic Movement, whose influence is increasing.