Jerusalem: Hundreds of Israeli colonists stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque today under heavy protection from the Israeli occupation police. Local sources reported that approximately 700 colonists entered Al-Aqsa Mosque in groups from al-Mughrabi Gate, performing Talmudic rituals and conducting tours of its courtyards on the third day of the Jewish Passover holiday.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, one colonist was seen in prayer attire within the Al-Aqsa courtyards, while others engaged in dancing and singing near the Lions' Gate, where hundreds of worshippers awaited permission to enter. The Israeli occupation police imposed strict restrictions on worshippers entering the mosque, checking their IDs and detaining some at its outer gates.
The Israeli occupation police intensified their presence in Jerusalem and its Old City, transforming the area into a military barracks by deploying thousands of officers and special forces units on the streets and roads. This was done to secure the settlers' incursions and maintain control amid rising tensions.