Israeli Settlers Storm Al Aqsa Mosque Compound Amid Tensions

[Mudhab]

Dozens of Israeli settlers, supported by police, entered the compound of Al-Aqsa Mosque in the walled city of East Jerusalem on Thursday. The incident has raised fresh concerns as tensions remain high in the occupied area.

The holy site was recently reopened to Muslim worshippers after being closed for 40 days during the Iran war. Palestinians have now returned to perform their prayers, but Israeli authorities have also allowed settlers to enter the compound, a move strongly criticized by Palestinians and many Muslim and Arab countries.

According to the Palestinian news agency Wafa, several settlers moved toward the Dome of the Rock and carried out what were described as provocative Talmudic rituals. Local authorities say these actions are seen as disrespectful and continue to increase tensions in the area.

Al-Aqsa Mosque is considered the third holiest site in Islam and has experienced repeated clashes over the years. Since Six-Day War when East Jerusalem was occupied, the area has seen frequent settler raids and restrictions placed on Muslim worshippers.

The mosque compound is officially managed by Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf, which has the legal responsibility to oversee the site and control access. Despite this, disputes over authority and access continue to create tension between different groups.

Meanwhile, Israel's far-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the compound on Sunday and called for increased access for Jewish worshippers. Since taking office in 2023, he has entered the site multiple times, actions that have drawn widespread criticism and heightened unrest.

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