Occupied Jerusalem – June 25, 2025: The gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, were partially reopened on Wednesday after a 12-day closure by Israeli occupation authorities, allowing limited access for Palestinian worshipers.

The move follows a period of heightened military tensions between Israel and Iran, during which the mosque was accessible only to Islamic Waqf staff and guards.

The Jerusalem Governorate confirmed the reopening of the Hitta, Silsila, and Majlis Gates, key entry points to the sacred compound, marking a partial easing of restrictions enforced under an Israeli-declared state of emergency. The Hitta Gate, located on the northern side facing the Sa’adiyya neighborhood, and the Silsila and Majlis Gates on the western side, are critical for worshipers’ access.

The closure, which began nearly two weeks ago, barred all worshipers from the mosque and imposed military checkpoints across Jerusalem’s Old City, severely restricting movement for residents and halting commercial activity. While the reopening offers some relief, Israeli forces continue to impose stringent measures, particularly on Fridays, the holiest day for Muslims. Thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank are still denied access, requiring Israeli-issued permits to navigate militarized checkpoints—a process widely criticized as discriminatory and a violation of religious freedom.

Palestinian and Islamic leaders condemned the restrictions as part of an ongoing effort to limit Muslim access to Al-Aqsa and control Jerusalem’s religious heritage. They continue to demand unrestricted access to the mosque and the protection of Islamic sanctities under international law. (ILKHA)