Jewish Mayor, Muslim Set off Traditional Ramadan Cannon in Jerusalem

September 16, 2007

Author: Staff Writer

Source: The International Herald Tribune

Wire Service: AP

https://www.jpost.com/israel/jewish-mayor-muslim-man-set-off-traditional-ramadan-cannon-in-jerusalem

A peaceful boom, set off by a Muslim and a Jew, echoed through Jerusalem's Old City Sunday night, ending the daily fast during the Muslim Ramadan holy month.

Jerusalem Mayor Uri Lupolianski joined Rajai Yehye Sandouka in setting off the ceremonial shot. Sandouka is the latest in a long line of family members, dating back to the Ottoman rule in the early 20th century, who have fired the traditional cannon.

But Sandouka said the tradition might be in jeopardy. He said Israeli officials have ordered him to undergo explosives training before next Ramadan, or he would be barred from lighting the fuse.

Israeli police would not comment on that. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld would say only that the ceremonies would proceed this year as usual.