JERUSALEM, April 18, 2011 (WAFA) – Israeli police Monday allowed large numbers of Jews to enter al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem’s Old City, one of Islam’s holiest sites, while imposing restrictions on movement of Muslim worshipers.

Israeli police has increased its presence in and around the Old City of Jerusalem as Jews prepare to celebrate Passover holiday. A closure has been imposed on the West Bank, which means Palestinians will not be allowed through checkpoints into East Jerusalem. The closure will remain in effect until April 26.

Witnesses said Jewish groups marched through the predominantly Arab Old City streets, harassing local residents and vandalizing property as they continue on their way to the Western Wall, where Jews perform prayers marking the start of Passover.

Police allowed the Jewish groups to enter Al-Aqsa compound through Dung Gate, next to the Western Wall, and allowed them free movement in the yards of the compound, banning, however, any contact between them and the Muslim worshippers.

R.Q./M.A.