Great news, Palestinians in East Jerusalem now have the opportunity to go to the cinema again. The old al-Quds cinema, which was closed down a quarter of a century ago during the first intifada from 1987-1993 has re-opened as the Yabous Cultural Centre which includes a cinema. The opening programme included a ‘Freedoms Film Week’. Read the whole story here. And visit the ‘Electronic Intifada’ report here. The new 81-seat cinema is programmed by Rima Essa who has made some strong statements about trying to show Arab films as well as other international titles previously only available in cinemas in West Jerusalem at high prices for Palestinians.

I’m sorry we are a few weeks late reporting this one but it’s great to add a third cinema opening after those in Nablus and Jenin.