Violence-hit Jerusalem braces for Jewish nationalist march

Palestinians have clashed with Israeli police for a third night in Jerusalem, and there are fears of more violence later on Monday over a planned Jewish nationalist march in the city.

The annual Jerusalem Day Flag March usually sees young Zionists walk through Muslim areas. 

The event marks Israel's capture of East Jerusalem – home to the Old City and its holy sites – in 1967. 

It is regarded by many Palestinians as a deliberate provocation.

A former high-ranking Israeli defence official, Amos Gilad, called for the march to be cancelled or re-routed, warning Army Radio: "The powder keg is burning and can explode at any time."

Tensions have been high in the city over the threatened eviction of Palestinian families from parts of East Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah district.

Hundreds of Palestinians and more than 20 Israeli police officers have been injured in clashes over the past three days, according to medics and police.

A court hearing had been expected on Monday in the years-long case of the Palestinian families. More than 70 people are appealing against an eviction order that would drive them from their homes in favour of Jewish settlers. 

But the hearing was cancelled on Sunday at the request of Israel's attorney-general. A new date will be set within the next 30 days.