During the first Friday of Ramzan, Israel only allowed a limited number of Muslims above 50 years from the West Bank to enter the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. In a statement, it was confirmed that a “limited number of Muslim worshippers” would be permitted entry on similar terms as last year, although it did not give any figure.
Palestinian Authority Criticizes the Limitations
The Palestinian Authority vigorously resisted Israel’s limitations, arguing that restricting the access of worshippers to the mosque contravenes Israel’s duties as an occupying authority. Israeli authorities have routinely applied access limitations over the years, citing safety concerns.
Who is Permitted to Enter?
Only certain groups of individuals can enter the mosque, according to Israeli authorities:
- Men over the age of 55
- Women over the age of 50
- Children below the age of 12
Moreover, all who are allowed must be screened for security. The statement also made it clear that Israeli Arabs are not subject to such restrictions, i.e., these restrictions are only for Muslims coming from the West Bank.
Significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque
Located in Jerusalem’s Old City, Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of Islam’s holiest sites. The hill on which it stands is known to Jews as Har ha-Bayit (Temple Mount) and to Muslims as al-Haram al-Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary).
Al-Aqsa is regarded as the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina. The compound houses two major Islamic landmarks:
- The Dome of the Rock
- The Al-Aqsa Mosque (Qibli Mosque), constructed in the 8th century
As tensions persist, Israel’s decision to impose these restrictions continues to spark debates over religious access and territorial control.
