Israel Imposes Restrictions on Muslim Access to Al-Aqsa Mosque During Ramadan

On the first of Esfand, the head of the Jerusalem police announced that the number of Muslim citizens participating in crowded worship during the holy month of Ramadan at the Al-Aqsa Mosque would be limited, citing concerns about protests related to the Gaza war. The Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest Islamic sites, is part of East Jerusalem, which was occupied by Israel in the 1967 war and is a focal point for the hope of establishing a Palestinian state. This site is also respected by Jews due to the presence of two ancient temples. Access regulations to the Al-Aqsa Mosque have frequently led to clashes, particularly for Muslims, who make up 18% of Israel's population, especially during Ramadan, which this year begins in mid-Esfand. Israel, which has previously imposed restrictions on young Palestinians living in Jerusalem and the West Bank, is now concerned about the potential flare-up of violence, four months after the start of the Gaza war. Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's Minister of National Security, stated that his proposal to ban most Muslim citizens from attending Friday prayers during Ramadan was rejected by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but emphasized that, although a group of officials insisted on allowing 120,000 to 150,000 people, an agreement was reached on a cap of 40,000 to 50,000. This action faced condemnation from Arab leaders in Israel. Ahmad Tibi, an opposition lawmaker, described Ben-Gvir as a 'right-wing extremist' and 'a firestarter,' but noted that there is someone above him who is responsible and 'gives him a can of gasoline.' Ben-Gvir also expressed disappointment that Netanyahu did not accept his proposal to allow police to enter the mosque's precincts and remove signs supporting Hamas. He stated that, given the situation of Israeli hostages in Gaza, granting such permission to Hamas supporters in a city that Israel considers its capital would create a 'picture of defeat.' Since Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, Israel has restricted Palestinian access to Israel. Many Arab citizens of Israel identify as Palestinians, and some of them rioted during the last Gaza war in 1400. Jewish visitors' access to 'Mount Moriah' is prohibited until the end of Ramadan. Worship ceremonies in Jerusalem were held 'calmly.'