OCCUPIED JERUSALEM, (PIC)
Around 100,000 worshippers performed Friday prayers at the Aqsa Mosque, marking the first Friday since the end of a 40-day closure imposed by Israeli authorities under the pretext of “emergency conditions.”
Thousands of Palestinians from Occupied Jerusalem and 1948-occupied territories began arriving at Aqsa from early dawn, despite strict restrictions and heavy security measures enforced by Israeli forces at the entrances to the Old City and the Mosque gates.
As worshippers gathered, Israeli forces entered the Mosque courtyards in an apparent attempt to restrict access and disrupt attendance. A young man was also assaulted near the Asbat Gate while leaving the Mosque after prayers.
Israeli authorities had kept Aqsa Mosque closed for 40 consecutive days, citing “emergency conditions,” and prevented Palestinians in Occupied Jerusalem from praying or being present at the site.
