Ramadan 2025: 70,000 Palestinians Attend Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque Despite Restrictions

IQNA – Approximately 70,000 Palestinians gathered at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied al-Quds to perform prayers on the first day of Ramadan, according to the Islamic Waqf Department.

The Isha and Taraweeh prayers took place despite heightened military measures by Israeli occupation authorities, which have restricted access to the site.

The Islamic Waqf Department noted that the majority of worshippers were residents of al-Quds or areas within the 1948 territories.

However, Israeli authorities reportedly prevented thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank from reaching the mosque to participate in the prayers.

Local sources added that Israeli forces intensified security checks at key entry points, including the Damascus Gate and Lion’s Gate, where they screened the identities of worshippers. Several young Palestinians were reportedly arrested and denied entry to the compound.

Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, traditionally sees a large influx of Palestinians during the blessed month of Ramadan. Fearful of the Muslims’ mass gathering, the occupation forces usually restrict access to the mosque.

Source: Agencies