Jerusalem Prepares for Obama Visit

Today US President Barak Obama is to arrive in Jerusalem, Israel

on Marine One, a special US presidential helicopter.

Yesterday,

Mark Regev before Obama visit

Spokesman Mark Regev spoke to foreign journalists and answered questions

Jerusalem photo

at the Begin Center where a special press center has been set up for them.

But the real activity was out on the Jerusalem streets.

Jerusalem photo for Obama visit

Workmen were busy painting the gates at Beit Hanasi,

the Israeli President’s residence.

Flags out for Obama visit. Jerusalem photo

Flags and barriers were set up outside,

Jerusalem photo, Obama in Israel

and tents and more security barriers extend down the street.

Jerusalem photo, Obama visit

Nearby flower beds were groomed and the fences white-washed,

but I wonder if they will do something about that mailbox?

Fixing Jerusalem for Obama visit

Even new street crossing signs were installed along the route. 

Jerusalem photo, Obama visit

Traffic to Old City was backed up already;

people were out early since so many streets will be closed during the visit.

Security for Obama visit

Flags and barriers were ready to make everything perfect for Obama.

Flowers Jerusalem photo

Oops, how did this one red plant get there?

Security near hotel for Obama visit

Near the King David Hotel more tents and barriers were ready,

as the entire hotel is reserved for presidential use.

Jerusalem photo for Obama visit

These white barriers are new-they were not there for GW Bush visits.

There should be no line of vision once Obama arrives.

Security for King David Hotel Obama visit

Certainly no taxis will be allowed in front of the King David Hotel and

Obama visit security preparations

 these barriers will keep everyone far away from King David Street.

Oh and of course,

Obama visit in Israel photo

 there are more barriers near the Prime Minister’s residence.

People in these neighborhoods will have to walk home if they can,

 since many streets will be closed to pedestrians,

and the #13 bus will not be able to make its regular route.

As residents of Jerusalem complain about the inconvenience,

companies who rent security barriers have reason to celebrate.

Obama in Israel photo

This sign is posted in front of the American Center on

Keren Hayesod Street which sums it up with

the Hebrew caption coming from Obama’ s mouth that reads

“Here I Come.”

Today is the day,

ready or not Jerusalem, for

#ObamaInIsrael.

3 thoughts on “Jerusalem Prepares for Obama Visit

  • March 21, 2013 at 2:15 am
    Permalink

    Dear People of Israel, I’m sorry our President choose to visit so close to Passover; and make it so difficult to conduct normal holiday activities with his presence. I wish his timing would have been more considerate. I apologise on behalf of Americans who honor your customs and regret this inconvenience.

    Reply
    • March 21, 2013 at 7:10 am
      Permalink

      Thank you Linda, How special a commnent. It is crazy timing, but certainly not the biggest challenge for us..ok maybe me planning to spend day at ICC waiting for POTUS speech, but certainly never boring in Jerusalem either!

      Reply
  • March 21, 2013 at 12:52 pm
    Permalink

    Sharon, I can’t believe you had time to take all these photos. This visit could have been timed better. Living near the President and the Prime Minister has some disadvantages…. The traffic back ups have been really annoying.

    Reply

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