Hebron: Israeli occupation forces (IOF) closed the Ibrahimi Mosque to Palestinian citizens on Wednesday until Thursday evening, citing Jewish holidays as the reason for the closure.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Hebron Waqf Director Amjad Karajeh condemned the closure, labeling it a violation of the mosque's sanctity and an encroachment on Muslims' right to access their places of worship. The closure was implemented under the pretext of securing celebrations for the Jewish Sukkot holiday.
The forces intensified military measures, shutting down all military checkpoints and electronic gates leading to the mosque to facilitate the settlers' celebrations. WAFA correspondent reported that soldiers were deployed at all entrances to the mosque to ensure the colonists could access the city of Hebron and its archaeological sites. Additionally, some markets in the Old City were closed.
Furthermore, the occupation forces imposed a curfew for the third consecutive day on the neighborhoods of Jaber, Salaymeh, Ghaith, and Wadi al-Hussein, which are adjacent to the Kiryat Arba colony. This area is constructed on Palestinian land and property east of Hebron. The curfew also prevented students from reaching their schools and intensified military measures in the areas of Tel Rumeida, Shuhada Street, and Jabal al-Rahma.
The Jewish holidays are particularly challenging for Hebron's citizens, as they are often marked by significant violations from the occupation forces. These include imposing sieges, tightening military measures at checkpoints, and hindering citizens' access to their homes, especially in the Old City of Hebron and its surrounding areas.