Hundreds of Israeli settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Tuesday under heavy protection from Israeli forces, continuing a pattern of violations against the holy site. This latest incursion raises concerns about attempts to alter the status quo at the mosque.
According to reports, 480 settlers entered the Al-Aqsa compound through the Mughrabi Gate on the Western Wall in successive groups, escorted by Israeli police. The incursions occurred during both the morning and afternoon visiting hours.
Sources indicate that settlers performed Talmudic rituals within the mosque’s courtyards. At the same time, Israeli forces imposed strict restrictions on the entry of Palestinian worshippers, including identity checks and detentions at the mosque gates. Reports suggest that over 2,000 settlers have entered Al-Aqsa Mosque in the past week under police protection.
Attacks on Bedouin Communities
Concurrently with the Al-Aqsa incursions, several Palestinians were injured in an attack by Israeli settlers on the Khalla al-Sidra Bedouin community in the town of Mukhmas, northeast of occupied Jerusalem. Reports indicate that over 20 settlers assaulted the community using batons, stones, and pepper spray, causing injuries and damage to homes. A vehicle belonging to a solidarity activist was also reportedly destroyed.
The settlers also allegedly vandalized solar panels belonging to residents, directly targeting electricity sources and infrastructure in what is described as a continued effort to pressure residents to leave their homes.
In related incidents, the Palestinian Red Crescent reported that two Palestinians were injured by Israeli forces. One was an elderly man, during a raid on the Amari refugee camp in Al-Bireh. The other was in the town of al-Ram, north of Jerusalem.
Additionally, Israeli authorities demolished a house in the Al-Bustan neighborhood of Silwan, south of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The situation remains tense in the occupied West Bank, with concerns mounting over escalating settler violence and restrictions on Palestinian access to holy sites.
