Israeli settlers, backed by heavy security from occupation forces, stormed the courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque on Wednesday, in a continued escalation targeting one of Islam’s holiest sites.

According to the Jerusalem Governorate, dozens of settlers entered the mosque compound and carried out what were described as provocative Talmudic rituals. Among these were acts of “epic prostration,” performed in sensitive areas near Bab al-Rahma and the Dome of the Rock.

The Governorate also reported that groups linked to the so-called “Temple Mount” movement circulated inciting calls encouraging settlers to intensify incursions into the holy site and raise Israeli flags within its courtyards—moves widely seen as attempts to alter the historical and religious status quo of Al-Aqsa.

These developments come as Israeli police continue to impose strict measures on Palestinian worshippers, including the installation of checkpoints, road closures, and severe restrictions on access to the mosque. Reports indicate that many worshippers have been subjected to identity confiscations, searches, and arbitrary denials of entry.

Since the beginning of April, the frequency and intensity of these incursions have markedly increased, with settlers openly performing collective rituals inside the mosque compound under the protection of Israeli forces. Palestinian officials warn that such actions represent a dangerous provocation and a direct assault on the sanctity of the site.

Tensions were further heightened on April 12, when Itamar Ben-Gvir entered the Al-Aqsa compound alongside settlers and performed Talmudic rituals. The incident marked his third such incursion this year and the 16th since assuming office, drawing widespread condemnation from Palestinians.

Observers caution that the ongoing incursions and restrictions risk igniting broader unrest, as Palestinians view these actions as part of a systematic effort to assert control over Al-Aqsa and undermine Islamic custodianship of the holy site.

Calls are mounting for urgent international intervention to halt the repeated violations and ensure the protection of Palestinian worshippers and the preservation of the mosque’s historical and religious character. (ILKHA)