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Published on: Friday, January 3, 2025, 1:25 PM
Category: International

Occupied Jerusalem – Tens of thousands of Palestinians performed Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque today despite stringent military measures imposed by Israeli occupation authorities, as reported by the Palestinian News Agency (WAFA).

According to the Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem, around 50,000 worshippers gathered in the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque. The occupation forces hindered access to the mosque via Bab Al-Amoud (Damascus Gate) and Bab Al-Asbat (Lions’ Gate), scrutinizing IDs and detaining several young men to prevent their entry.

Some young Palestinians resorted to praying in the vicinity of the mosque after being denied access to its courtyards.

The Israeli authorities have long restricted thousands of Palestinian residents of the West Bank from entering Jerusalem to pray at Al-Aqsa Mosque, requiring special permits to cross the military checkpoints surrounding the holy city.

Since the start of the Israeli aggression on Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank in October 2023, the occupation forces have tightened security measures at Al-Aqsa Mosque gates and the entrances to the Old City, severely limiting Palestinian access to the site.

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Author: Nor-Eleslam