Over 1,300 Israelis storm Al-Aqsa under police protection
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Jerusalem Governorate reported that over 1,300 Israelis stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Wednesday under Israeli police protection. Police tightened security at the gates and prevented most Muslims from entering for morning prayers, while a Likud lawmaker joined the raid.
The Raid
Jerusalem Governorate said in a statement that fanatical Israelis, protected by Israeli police, stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The number of raiders exceeded 1,300, with groups continuing to arrive. Police allowed up to 150 extremists at a time, but the total surged past the limit. The governorate noted that extremist groups aim to bring 5,000 people to the site.
Police Restrictions
Israeli police tightened measures at the gates of Al-Aqsa and around the Old City, blocking most Muslims from entering for prayer. Only a small number of worshippers managed to enter for dawn prayers. Police were reported to have beaten some Muslims. Israeli forces deployed heavily in the mosque courtyards.
Political Involvement
Likud lawmaker Amit Halevi participated in the raid, according to the governorate. The storming coincided with the Jewish holiday of Tisha B'Av, which has historically seen increased tensions at the site. Extremist groups had called for a large-scale incursion.
What's Next
The Israeli government has not yet commented on the incident. It remains unclear whether further restrictions on Muslim access will follow or if the Palestinian Authority will respond diplomatically.
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Over 1,300 Israelis storm Al-Aqsa under police protection
