Massive Attendance at Al-Aqsa Mosque Despite Occupation Restrictions

On Friday, the occupied Jerusalem Governorate announced that approximately 100,000 worshippers gathered at Al-Aqsa Mosque for prayers, despite severe security measures and restrictions imposed by occupying forces that prevented hundreds from entering the Old City of Jerusalem.

Reports indicate that the occupying military enforced stringent limitations at checkpoints, particularly at Qalandia in the north and Bethlehem in the south of Jerusalem. This resulted in the blocking of many residents from the West Bank who intended to attend prayers at Al-Aqsa. Notably, even many elderly individuals were denied passage.

In spite of these obstacles, local sources confirmed the presence of around 100,000 people at Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Jerusalem Governorate characterized this turnout as a demonstration of the community’s resilience and determination to perform their religious rites, highlighting a clear message of the unbreakable bond between the people and their sacred sites.Continuing their oppressive policies occupying authorities issued over 280 orders of “exile from Al-Aqsa” (prohibiting entry). Those barred from entering the mosque were compelled to conduct their Friday prayers at the Bab al-Rahma cemetery located adjacent to the mosque’s wall. Meanwhile reports have emerged of the occupying forces showing blatant disrespect by trampling graves and setting up military tents within this historic cemetery.