Approximately 80,000 Palestinians performed the first Friday prayers of Ramadan at the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque, defying stringent Israeli restrictions aimed at limiting access to the holy site, particularly for worshippers arriving from the occupied West Bank.

Local Jerusalem sources reported that the large turnout came despite a heavy Israeli security presence and tightened measures at entrances to the city. Restrictions were especially severe at the Qalandia checkpoint, north of Jerusalem, where Israeli forces installed metal barriers and concrete blocks, conducted ID checks, searched worshippers, and reportedly turned back dozens — including individuals holding valid entry permits.

Israeli authorities had previously announced that only 10,000 Palestinians from the West Bank would be permitted to attend Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa each week during Ramadan. The permits are subject to restrictive conditions, including age limitations: men over 55, women over 50, and children under 12 only if accompanied by a first-degree relative.

However, local sources stated that the situation on the ground differed from official announcements, with hundreds allegedly prevented from entering without clear justification, even when they met the stated criteria.

As part of heightened monitoring policies, Israeli authorities have introduced a “magnetic card” system for West Bank Palestinians seeking access to Jerusalem. The system requires individuals to pass through electronic checkpoints, enabling authorities to track their movement from their place of residence to Occupied Jerusalem.

The measures are part of a broader escalation in security policies since October 7, 2023. These include limiting the number of worshippers allowed into Al-Aqsa, issuing conditional permits subject to security clearance, and increasing digital surveillance of Palestinian residents.

Dozens of Palestinians were reportedly prevented from reaching Jerusalem on Friday. Journalists and medical teams also faced movement restrictions at Qalandia checkpoint. According to local sources, four paramedics were detained, and Israeli forces intensified their deployment around the city.

Israeli authorities also prevented young men from entering the Mosque compound through Bab al-Silsila shortly before evening prayers. Worshippers reported strict controls on bringing food into the compound, including meals families had prepared for iftar.

Earlier in the week, around 60,000 worshippers performed the Isha and Taraweeh prayers on the second day of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque under similar restrictions.

Palestinian and Jerusalem-based groups have called for increased mobilization throughout Ramadan, urging Palestinians to travel to Al-Aqsa in greater numbers. They described a stronger presence at the site as essential to counter what they characterize as escalating measures aimed at limiting access to the Mosque and isolating it from its Palestinian surroundings.

Despite intensified restrictions, Friday’s turnout underscored the central religious and national significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque for Palestinians during the holy month of Ramadan. (ILKHA)