JERUSALEM, May 26, 2025 (WAFA) – Hundreds of Israeli colonists stormed the courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Monday, under heavy protection from Israeli occupation forces, to mark the anniversary of Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem.
Among those present were far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and his wife, as well as Minister for the Negev and Galilee Yitzhak Wasserlauf. Several Knesset members also took part, including Yitzhak Kroizer from the Jewish Power party.
In a video filmed at the site and shared on X, Ben-Gvir commented: “A large number of Jews are coming here, and it’s enjoyable to see that.” He added: “Today, thank God, it’s possible to pray here and bow here. We thank God for that.”
According to local sources, around 1,500 colonists entered the mosque compound, performing Talmudic rituals and what were described as provocative acts. One colonist reportedly raised the Israeli flag and danced in the eastern section of the compound.
Israeli police installed metal barriers around Damascus Gate and throughout the Old City, imposing further restrictions on Palestinian residents of Jerusalem.
Eyewitnesses reported that some colonists attempted to bring Torah scrolls into the compound through the Moroccan Gate. Large groups also gathered in the Western Wall plaza (Buraq Square) and near Bab al-Qattanin, where they held prayers and danced.
The Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem stated that 1,427 colonists entered the compound in organized groups during the morning hours, accompanied by police. The Waqf noted that more incursions were expected in the afternoon.
Videos circulating on social media also showed Likud party Knesset member Amit Halevi performing religious rituals in the eastern section of the mosque compound.
The latest incursion comes amid rising tensions and calls from far-right settler groups for increased presence at the site. The Waqf and other Palestinian authorities have warned of escalating provocations and tighter restrictions on Muslim worshippers.
Israeli forces have set up metal barricades around Damascus Gate and the entrance to Jerusalem’s Old City ahead of the annual "Flag March," scheduled to begin Monday afternoon. The provocative event is set to start at the Buraq Square and pass through Damascus Gate and Al-Wad Street—areas densely populated by Palestinians.
Since 2003, Israeli colonists—under the protection of occupation forces—have been storming the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound five days a week. Over the past decade, colonists have escalated their actions by performing silent public prayers during these incursions, which have now evolved into full Talmudic rituals and even the raising of the Israeli flag within the compound
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