Dozens of Israeli settlers entered the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque on Sunday morning through the Mughrabi Gate, under the protection of Israeli occupation forces.
The incursion was carried out in response to calls from extremist “Temple” groups advocating for a mass entry into the mosque to mark “Shushan Purim,” a religious observance linked to the Jewish holiday of Purim.
According to the Islamic Endowments Department in occupied Jerusalem, the settlers conducted provocative tours within the mosque’s premises. Reports indicate that some of them engaged in Talmudic rituals in the eastern section of the sacred site.
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Israeli forces intensified security measures around the Old City and at Al-Aqsa’s gates, restricting Palestinian access and causing disruptions for worshippers.
Amid ongoing escalations, calls have been amplified for increased Palestinian presence at Al-Aqsa Mosque, particularly throughout Ramadan, to counter the frequent incursions and efforts to alter the status quo of the holy site.
The Ministry has urged Palestinians to remain steadfast in protecting Al-Aqsa Mosque against attempts to alter its identity, warning of broader threats to Palestinian rights and Islamic sanctities amid ongoing Israeli policies and U.S. backing of occupation-related actions.