Israeli Colonists Conduct Rituals Near Al-Aqsa Mosque

Jerusalem:Israeli colonists early today raided Bab al-Rahma Cemetery, which is adjacent to the eastern wall of Al-Aqsa Mosque, to perform Jewish religious rituals. According to Palestine News and Information Agency, the rituals were in observance of the seventh and final day of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. Participants carried the 'Four Species' of plants and conducted their rituals outside Bab al-Rahma Gate, near Muslim graves. The Jerusalem Governorate noted that these practices are part of recurring activities in the area by colonist groups who aim to establish the site as a venue for Jewish prayer and rituals. This ongoing activity is seen as an effort to alter the established status of the site. The governorate warned that these repeated rituals are attempts to change the historical and legal status quo around Al-Aqsa Mosque and undermine the Islamic identity of the area. The growing frequency of these events is viewed as a move to make the area near Bab al-Rahma a permanent location for Jewish relig ious activities.