JERUSALEM, March 18, 2026 (WAFA) – Israeli occupation authorities have continued the closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Jerusalem to Muslims worshipers for the 19th consecutive day, citing security pretexts.
Authorities have escalated their repressive measures against worshippers and those maintaining a presence at the site. Occupation police have intensified their restrictions, preventing access even to the courtyard of the Rashidiya School.
Meanwhile, worshippers have continued to pray at the gates for the ninth night in protest against the closure.
On Tuesday evening, occupation forces prevented residents from performing Taraweeh prayers in several neighborhoods of occupied Jerusalem. Troops deployed around Damascus Gate and Herod's Gate, banning worshippers from performing the Taraweeh prayers and forcing them to leave the area in an attempt to disperse them and prevent any gatherings for prayer.
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