Opinion: It is just fitting that the Israelis have the total control of both old and new Jerusalem, otherwise tourists including myself will have a hard time crossing checkpoints and borders. The countryside is not as bad when it comes to checkpoints because of low population density. Israel is not well liked by her neighboring countries, I don't blame Israel for being battle-ready at a moment's notice. I just hope that there will be a solution for peace and tolerance in that place of the world, for it is the place to visit for anyone interested in the region's rich history.