The Silwan Sports Club in the occupied city of Jerusalem is facing real dangers, after the occupation authorities informed its administration of the need to pay heavy taxes, amid warnings that failure to pay might lead to the club’s headquarters being seized and sold.
The occupation municipality is demanding that the club, which was founded in 1995, that is, before the occupation of East Jerusalem, pay an amount equivalent to $270,000, which is the “arnona” tax – or roofing tax – that is imposed on Jerusalemites on their property in the occupied city.
The Silwan Club – which was established on a plot of land not exceeding 500 square meters – provides educational, recreational and cultural services to hundreds of Palestinian children, and has still maintained its Jerusalemite identity for about 60 years, despite the presence of competing projects fueled by the occupation.
Club President Ahmed Al-Ghoul told Tel Aviv Tribune Net that efforts are continuing to protect the property, as contacts are being made with Palestinian businessmen in Jerusalem to participate in this protection.
Al-Ghoul calls on the Palestinian Authority to stand up against the attack the club is experiencing, which may lead to its closure and the end of its career. He adds that all these measures will not deter them from continuing the club’s career.
