In a concerning turn of events, a significant number of Israeli settlers, totaling 595 individuals, entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem on Monday, October 2, 2023, coinciding with the Hebrew holiday referred to as “Hebrew Throne Day.” The intrusion occurred despite an increased presence of Israeli occupation police officers on site.
The infiltration unfolded in stages, with groups of Israeli settlers gaining access to the mosque grounds through the Moroccan Gate, a location guarded by Israeli law enforcement. Within the mosque’s courtyards, some of these settlers performed Talmudic rituals, while others congregated near the Chain Gate.
To ensure the premises were devoid of worshippers, Israeli occupation forces (IOF) entered the mosque area at approximately 7:30 AM before permitting settler incursions. This move aimed to prevent potential clashes between settlers and Muslim worshippers.
READ MORE: Man Apprehended Following Violent Assault on Devotees at Unnao Temple in Uttar Pradesh
Video footage emerged depicting a group of settlers parading through the streets of Jerusalem’s Old City while carrying what they referred to as “vegetable sacrifices.” These rituals are promoted by certain Temple Mount advocacy groups within the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
According to reports from the Islamic Waqf Authority, Sunday saw an even larger incursion of 859 Israeli settlers into the Al-Aqsa Mosque. These events unfolded amidst heightened restrictions imposed by Israeli occupation forces, particularly targeting younger individuals and regular mosque attendees.
The Hebrew Throne Day holiday, extending until October 7th, has brought with it vows from Temple Mount groups to surpass previous records regarding the number of intruders. These groups have gone to the extent of offering free transportation from various regions and snacks at the Moroccan Gate, enticing more participants.
READ MORE: Iran Expresses Outrage Over Holy Qur’an Desecration in Netherlands
Historically, incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound often coincide with Jewish holidays, occurring in two sessions daily, from Sunday to Thursday – in the morning and afternoon. The Moroccan Gate serves as the entry point, with a route taking participants through the Qibli Mosque, the eastern wall, and eventually the northern wall, before exiting through the Chain Gate.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque continually faces the challenge of daily incursions and violations by settlers, who enjoy the backing of Israeli occupation forces. These actions are part of a broader effort to assert control over the mosque, both in terms of temporal access and spatial dominance. The situation remains a matter of grave concern and ongoing international attention.