Israeli Forces Assault Worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque Gate

IQNA – Israeli forces escalated their presence at the Asbat Gate, a principal entry point to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied al-Quds, assaulting a number of Muslim worshippers who sought to attend Friday Prayers in the mosque.

According to eyewitness accounts, Israeli forces violently assaulted worshipers today at the Asbat Gate, detaining two individuals and the restriction of access for numerous others seeking to attend prayers.

The Israeli police have amplified security protocols at the Al-Aqsa Mosque entrance, increasing the number of inspection points and preventing a considerable number of worshippers from entering the site.

Despite these heightened measures, a significant number of Palestinian worshippers persisted in their attempts to participate in Friday prayers.

A WAFA correspondent has reported that Israeli forces have enforced stringent controls at the mosque's entrances and throughout the Old City, subjecting entrants to searches and reported harassment.

Consequently, a contingent of young men conducted their Friday prayers in the nearby Ras al-Amoud neighborhood after being denied access to the mosque.

Since the early hours, there has been a notable augmentation of Israeli forces around the Old City's gates, including the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, with the installation of additional iron barriers.

This incident marks the 22nd successive Friday of heightened tensions following the commencement of ongoing Israeli bloodshed in the Gaza Strip on October 7.

Source: Agencies