Israeli occupation forces closed the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron on Wednesday and prevented Palestinian worshippers and visitors from entering the holy site, citing Jewish holidays, according to local sources.

The closure barred Muslim worshippers from accessing the mosque and performing prayers, while Israeli forces reportedly restricted movement around the site to facilitate access for Israeli settlers under the pretext of holiday observances.

The Ibrahimi Mosque, located in the heart of Hebron’s Old City, has long been a flashpoint amid Israel’s occupation and the division of the site between Muslim and Jewish worshippers.

Israeli forces also carried out raids on several Palestinian homes across Hebron Governorate, according to local reports.

Troops raided and searched homes in Hebron city as well as the towns of Al-Dhahiriya and Al-Samu, south of the city. The searches reportedly caused damage and disruption to the contents of several properties.

No detentions were reported in connection with the raids.

The latest measures come amid continuing restrictions on Palestinian movement and access to religious sites across the occupied West Bank. The closure of the Ibrahimi Mosque has once again raised concerns over restrictions on Muslim worshippers and the status of the holy site under Israeli occupation. (ILKHA)