Tensions mounted dramatically in East Jerusalem on Sunday as Israeli settlers, protected by Israeli police, stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque compound — one of Islam’s holiest sites — leading to widespread condemnation from Palestinian officials and Muslim leaders.
Eyewitnesses reported that dozens of settlers entered the compound through Mughrabi Gate escorted by heavily armed security forces. Their entry coincided with an especially volatile period, heightening fears of renewed violence in both Cairo and its surroundings.
The Islamic Waqf, Jordan-appointed body responsible for managing the mosque, strongly condemned this intrusion as it represents “an illegal violation of sacred sites and an extreme provocation against Muslims worldwide”.
Palestinian worshippers inside the compound were reported to be restricted from entering certain areas during settlers’ presence, with several being forcibly removed by Israeli police officers. Social media footage circulating online revealed scuffles and physical confrontations between officers and Palestinians attempting to prevent incursion.
Palestinian Authority spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh condemned Israel’s actions as part of their attempt to Judaize Jerusalem and alter the historical status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque. Abu Rudeineh warned of repeated violations as acts intended to spark religious conflict in Jerusalem. “These repeated violations constitute deliberate provocations which threaten religious conflict,” he warned.
Storming comes amid rising political and military tensions between Israel and Palestinian factions, particularly since Israel launched an ongoing military campaign in Gaza. Hamas strongly condemned these actions, calling for mass mobilization in defense of Al-Aqsa and warning such moves could escalate the conflict even further.
International observers and regional powers have also expressed alarm. Jordan, which serves as custodian of Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem, issued an emphatic statement demanding Israel stop all settler incursions immediately and protect the religious freedom of Muslim worshippers.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, better known to Jews as Temple Mount, has long been at the forefront of Israeli-Palestinian tensions. Under an agreed upon program, non-Muslim visitors are welcome to enter during certain hours; however prayer privileges are reserved exclusively for Muslims.
Sunday’s incident adds to an increasingly contentious environment at the compound in recent months, heightening fears of an escalated crisis throughout Jerusalem and the broader area.