JERUSALEM, June 20, 2025 (WAFA) – Israeli occupation forces on Friday closed all gates leading to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Jerusalem, barring worshippers from entering to perform Friday prayers for the second consecutive week.

According to the Palestinian Authority's Jerusalem Governorate, Israeli forces sealed off all mosque entrances, including the Hitta and Chain Gates, after allowing a limited number of worshippers to pass through. Troops were heavily deployed at the gates and in surrounding areas.

In addition, Israeli forces stopped worshippers at the Herod's Gate (Bab al-Sahira), obstructing their access to the Old City and the mosque compound ahead of prayer time.

Since June 13, Israeli occupation authorities have imposed severe restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa. The mosque was fully closed for six consecutive days before a new policy of limited admittance began last Wednesday, under what Israeli forces described as a “regulated entry system.”

The Governorate stated that only 450 worshippers were allowed to enter for the noon prayer on Thursday through the Hitta Gate, after which the gate was immediately shut to prevent further access. Employees of the Islamic Waqf were permitted to enter through the Hitta and Chain Gates under tight surveillance. In contrast, Israeli authorities opened the Moroccan Gate for settlers to enter and tour the compound.

The Jerusalem Governorate described these actions as a "dangerous escalation" aimed at altering the historical and legal status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque. The statement accused Israel of exploiting regional conflict to implement plans that would change the character of the holy site.

The restrictions have paralyzed daily life in the Old City, where only residents with local ID cards were permitted entry. Meanwhile, Jewish synagogues and markets remained open as usual, highlighting the disparity in access and mobility under the current closures.

M.N