Jerusalem:Israeli occupation authorities closed Maghariba Gate, a key entrance to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, following the entry of 1,731 colonists into its courtyards on the third day of the Jewish 'Sukkot' holiday.
According to Palestine news andInformation Agency, the colonists entered Al-Aqsa in successive groups, under heavy protection from Israeli police. They performed Talmudic rituals and prayers in the mosque's courtyards, with heightened military measures in place around the mosque and Old City.
Since the morning, Israeli authorities have closed several roads leading to the Old City and Al-Aqsa Mosque, including Bab al-Asbat Street, to facilitate the movement of colonists. This led to traffic congestion and restricted the movement of local Jerusalemites.
The incursions are part of a broader pattern of escalations during Jewish holidays. On the previous Sunday, approximately 1,500 colonists and rabbis entered Al-Aqsa Mosque, performing rituals and Talmudic prayers near Bab al-Qattanin. 'Plant offerings' were also brought into the courtyards before the closure of Maghariba Gate.
The Jerusalem Governorate reports that 40,661 colonists entered Al-Aqsa Mosque from the beginning of the year until the end of August. Additionally, around 800 orders banning Jerusalemites from entering the mosque were issued from the start of the year until early September.