Israeli Authorities Heighten Security for Ramadan's Initial Friday Prayers
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Synopsis
Israeli police are deploying 3,000 officers in Jerusalem for the first Friday prayers of Ramadan at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, a historically sensitive site. Access will be restricted to 10,000 Palestinians from the West Bank, and security measures are heightened to prevent violence during this religious period.
Key Takeaways
- 3,000 officers deployed for security.
- Access limited to 10,000 Palestinians.
- Heightened tensions during Ramadan.
- Checkpoints established around the city.
- Road closures advised for motorists.
Jerusalem, March 6 (NationPress) The Israeli police are set to deploy around 3,000 officers throughout Jerusalem as preparations begin for the initial Friday prayers of Ramadan at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in the Old City, as reported by Israeli media on Thursday.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound holds significant religious importance for both Muslims and Jews and has historically been a source of conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, especially during the Ramadan period.
Last month, Israeli media indicated that security agencies intend to limit access to the site, permitting only 10,000 Palestinians from the West Bank to attend Friday prayers, subject to prior approval. Those Palestinian prisoners released under the Gaza ceasefire agreement will be denied entry.
A police representative mentioned that extra personnel will be stationed at checkpoints surrounding the city, in East Jerusalem, and within the Old City this Friday. Security forces are focused on preventing "hostile elements from taking advantage of Ramadan for incitement, disturbances, terrorism, or any kind of violence."
Authorities have advised motorists to consider alternative routes due to the closure of several main roads near the Old City from 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. local time (0400-1330 GMT) on Friday, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
According to the established status quo that regulates the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, referred to by Jews as the Temple Mount, non-Muslims are allowed to visit the site only during specific time frames and are prohibited from praying there.
