'Spontaneous' violence in the Middle East? Don't be fooled

The Palestinian Authority has promised three days of rage in response to President Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. There will certainly be violence: Burning tires and rock-throwing demonstrations make good video. Stabbings, shooting, and cars running over pedestrians are worth a couple days of headlines, bonus points if hand-wringing pundits blame the victims rather than the terrorists and diplomats rationalize the violence.

But make no mistake: Whatever happens, it will not be spontaneous. Spontaneous protests are a rarity in the Middle East.