Israeli Occupation Set to Impose Restrictions on Al-Aqsa Mosque During Ramadan
According to the Israeli broadcaster Channel 12, discussions have taken place within the ministry of military affairs involving intelligence agency Shin Bet, the police, the prison service, and the army to outline security measures for the site.
The proposed restrictions would significantly limit the number of worshippers permitted to enter the mosque, a location that typically sees large gatherings during Ramadan.
Under the plan, only a few thousand individuals would be allowed inside at a time. Additionally, access would be restricted to men over 55, women over 50, and children under 12.
For communal Friday prayers, the proposed plan would allow up to 10,000 worshippers, with prior approval required for attendance. Channel 12 reported that these measures, along with other potential security decisions, will be reviewed in the coming days.
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An unnamed source told the news outlet that the security situation in Gaza could influence how restrictions are enforced during Ramadan. "If a ceasefire is reached, the expectation is for a calmer situation. If not, security forces will be deployed in larger numbers to prepare for possible escalations," the source stated.
Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam’s third holiest site, has been at the center of tensions in past years, particularly during Ramadan. The site, which also holds religious significance for Jews and Christians, has witnessed several confrontations between Israeli security forces and Muslim worshippers.
In May 2021, Israeli forces raided the mosque during Ramadan, injuring hundreds of worshippers. The violence escalated into an 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas, resulting in over 250 Palestinian deaths.
Similar incidents occurred in 2022, when Israeli forces conducted multiple raids on the mosque, removing worshippers to allow access for Jewish visitors marking Passover.
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In 2023, before the onset of the war in Gaza, clashes intensified at the compound, drawing international condemnation. During one of the raids, Israeli security forces reportedly damaged mosque property, injured dozens of Palestinians, and arrested at least 400 people.
Since October 7, 2023, Israeli authorities have tightened access to the mosque, significantly reducing the number of worshippers allowed to enter. Prior to last year’s Eid al-Adha prayers, Israeli forces reportedly blocked access to the site, with officers forcibly preventing young men from reaching the mosque, using batons and physical force.
Many Palestinians consider the protection of Al-Aqsa Mosque a national responsibility, while Israel’s increased security measures at the site are viewed as an assertion of control over the compound.
Source: Agencies
