Jerusalem: Despite stringent military restrictions imposed by Israeli occupation authorities, approximately 40,000 worshipers gathered to perform Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Islamic Awqaf Department in Jerusalem reported this significant turnout, highlighting the challenges faced by worshipers due to the imposed entry limitations.

According to Jordan News Agency, occupation forces were actively involved in monitoring worshipers, stopping many young men to check their identification as they attempted to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque. The forces were reportedly chasing individuals through the Old City’s alleys and obstructing their path to the mosque, forcing them to access the site through the Lions Gate.

Access to Al-Aqsa Mosque remains heavily restricted by occupying forces, particularly on Fridays, when many gather for prayers. The occupation authorities have limited access for thousands of West Bank governorate residents, requiring special licenses to pass through military checkpoints surrounding th
e holy city of Jerusalem.

Since October 2023, the occupation troops have intensified their control at the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Old City entrances, coinciding with Israel’s comprehensive assault on Palestinian territories in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.