DaysofPal- Israeli forces have continued the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque for the 39th consecutive day, preventing worshippers from performing prayers while preparing to open the Western Wall area for hardline settlers to carry out what is referred to as the “priestly blessing.”
The ongoing restrictions have prompted renewed calls from Palestinians in Jerusalem and beyond to gather at the nearest accessible points to the mosque and attempt to break the blockade imposed on it. Public, political, and community voices have demanded the immediate and unconditional reopening of all Al-Aqsa gates, along with an end to measures targeting worshippers and those stationed at its entrances.
These appeals have also included calls for urgent international intervention to pressure Israel to halt escalating actions against Islamic holy sites.
Tensions intensified further following the entry of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir into the mosque compound on Monday, despite its continued closure.
Local sources reported that Ben-Gvir entered through the Moroccan Gate and moved toward the Chain Gate under heavy protection from Israeli forces. His visit coincided with a complete lockdown of the Old City, enforced through strict military measures.
This marks the fifteenth time Ben-Gvir has entered the compound since taking office in 2023, a pattern that has drawn repeated criticism from Palestinian officials and religious authorities.
In response, Hamas condemned the visit and the ongoing closure. Senior figure Abdul Rahman Shadid described the move as a deliberate escalation targeting the sanctity of the mosque. He said the continued closure for more than a month, combined with such visits, reflects a policy aimed at imposing full control over the site and reshaping its status.
Shadid warned that these actions represent a broader and more dangerous approach that could leave the mosque exposed to repeated settler entries and attacks. He called on Palestinians to intensify mobilization efforts and resist the closure, urging continued action to defend religious sites despite the restrictions in place.
Shortlink for this post: https://daysofpalestine.ps/?p=73625
