Israeli Forces Storm Masjid al-Aqsa
The ongoing attacks on Masjid al-Aqsa by Israel have sparked outrage among Muslims worldwide.
According to a statement by the Governor of Jerusalem in Palestine, 160 Israelis from the Gasben area of Palestinian territory recently raided Masjid al-Aqsa with police protection. The Israelis entered the mosque, prayed, and recorded religious rituals, despite protests from the local Muslim community.
Since August 2024, reports indicate that daily and collective rituals have been performed at Masjid al-Aqsa by Israeli settlers. The Israeli forces have been accused of preventing Muslims from entering the mosque, confiscating iftar dishes, and imposing strict identity controls on young people in the area.
In response to these actions, the Department of Islamic Foundations in Jerusalem reported that more than 80,000 people participated in the isha and tarawih prayers at Masjid al-Aqsa. However, Israel’s security restrictions during the month of Ramadan have hindered the ability of Muslims from Jerusalem and the Palestinian territory to access the mosque.
Under the Peace Treaty signed between Israel and Jordan in 1994, Masjid al-Aqsa falls under the jurisdiction of Jerusalem Foundations, Islamic Affairs, and the Ministry of Specific Foundations. Despite this, Israel has unilaterally allowed Israelis to enter Masjid al-Aqsa without permission since 2003, leading to allegations of sovereignty violations by the Muslim community.
Furthermore, Israel has been conducting excavations under the guise of uncovering remains of Suleyman’s temple beneath Masjid al-Aqsa. This has raised concerns about the preservation of the historical and religious sanctity of the mosque, as well as the safety of its visitors.
While Israel claims that only members of other religions are allowed to visit the site, recent incidents of fanatical Jews praying inside the mosque under the protection of Israeli police have sparked condemnation from the international community. The continued violations of Masjid al-Aqsa, the first Qibla of Muslims, highlight the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to protect the religious rights and cultural heritage of the mosque.
