As a photojournalist I know publications much prefer to use free or stock photos rather than pay a photographer. That is expected. It has become the norm. However, what also should be expected is integrity in the use of old photographs.
Elder of Ziyon wrote on the negative reactions reported in Arab media to the proposed hotel development in the Jerusalem Armenian Quarter parking lot.
His piece was republished the next day in the Algemeiner with a suitable heading: Palestinians Upset at Armenian Church Leasing Out Land to Australian Jew; Not Israeli, But Jew
So upset at the error, I sent Elder messages and photos from my previous visits to the site which I have watched for years. The prospect of a hotel on the spot is an old story. I have documented its progress and slow development.
Bothered enough, I went back this morning to verify the scene and check the distances.
Why make such a big deal over one photo?
For decades, close to a century, Arab leaders having troubles with their rule over unhappy populations have shouted "Al-Quds" as a distraction. And it has worked time and again.
The latest survey and report by Khali Shikaki on Domestic and Palestinian Authority/Israel issues showed 78%, a 10 % increase over the last poll in March, wanted Abu Mazen to resign. Abu Mazen knew he was in trouble when he called off the elections. The disappointment of those who expected elections and the death of Nizar Banat only added more bad news for him.
Then yesterday we saw multiple scenes on social media with thousands of Gazans wanting proposed work permits in Israel. Hamas used 'save Jerusalem' in May as a rallying call over the flimsy excuse of a few security barriers.
To use a photo of the Kotel Plaza for a situation in the Armenian Quarter is not good journalism. It is not only wrong, it could be dangerous.
I went back this morning to do a video of the area near the Armenian Parking lot. It should look familiar to anyone who went by taxi or the small buses to the Kotel in the past.
In Jerusalem, nothing is simple (or flat), and even searching on Google maps or taking still images, it is often difficult to show the real Jerusalem streets.
