Hamas Calls for Mass Presence at Al-Aqsa Amid Israeli Restrictions

IQNA – Hamas has called on Palestinians to visit Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied al-Quds during the holy month of Ramadan, urging them to engage in worship, steadfastness, and seclusion. 

In a statement on Saturday, the group encouraged Palestinians from occupied territories to "mobilize all efforts this month by traveling to Al-Aqsa Mosque, remaining steadfast, and engaging in seclusion there." 

“Let the blessed days and nights of Ramadan be dedicated to worship, steadfastness, and resistance against the enemy and settler mobs, as well as to the defense of al-Quds and Al-Aqsa until they are liberated from occupation,” Hamas said.   

The movement also called on Palestinians around the world to organize “the broadest initiatives and solidarity events in support of their brethren in Gaza, the West Bank, and al-Quds.” 

Meanwhile, on Friday evening, Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, the preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque, said Israeli authorities had imposed strict security measures in occupied al-Quds. He noted that occupation authorities aim to limit Palestinian access to the mosque. 

Every year during Ramadan, occupation authorities enforce restrictions that affect Palestinians’ ability to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East al-Quds. Palestinians see these measures as part of a wider policy to alter the city's demographic and religious character. 

Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third-holiest site in Islam.

The regime occupied East al-Quds, including Al-Aqsa Mosque, during the 1967 Arab-Israeli War and later annexed the area in 1980—a move that remains unrecognized by the international community. 

In July last year, the International Court of Justice ruled that Israel’s long-standing occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal and called for the evacuation of all settlements in the West Bank and East al-Quds. 

Source: Agencies