According to witnesses, more than 434 settlers entered the mosque compound, performing religious rituals, with one settler reportedly blowing a shofar. The group also gathered at the al-Tattanin Gate, a key northern entrance to the mosque, where they continued their rituals.
Ahead of the incursion, Israeli forces intensified military measures in the Old City of Jerusalem, closing the access routes from Lions' Gate to Mughrabi Gate and restricting Muslim access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque to facilitate the settlers' entry.
The Israeli authorities have frequently imposed restrictions on Palestinians during Jewish holidays, including increased military presence and checkpoint closures, disrupting the movement of residents and limiting access to religious sites.
Since 2003, Israeli authorities have allowed Jewish settlers to enter the mosque compound on a nearly daily basis, with the exception of Fridays, the Muslim day of worship.
Israel occupied East Jerusalem, where Al-Aqsa Mosque is situated, during the 1967 Six-Day War, a move not recognized by the international community. (ILKHA)