Thousands of Israelis Enter Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound Under Police Escort

Thousands of Israeli right‑wing activists entered the Al‑Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on Friday under the escort of Israeli police, an incursion that sparked a volatile confrontation on the holy site. The group, which had gathered near the Western Wall, was led into the compound after police cleared a line of Palestinian worshippers and then opened the gates for the visitors. Once inside, the activists raised Israeli flags, chanted nationalist slogans and attempted to pray near the mosque’s main prayer hall, actions that were quickly met with resistance from Palestinian worshippers who threw stones and shouted objections. Police responded with batons and tear‑gas, detaining several activists and arresting a number of Palestinians accused of assaulting the officers.

The incident escalated into a broader clash that left dozens injured, including both police officers and civilians, and heightened tensions ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Israeli authorities justified the police protection as a measure to prevent a larger riot, while Palestinian officials condemned the move as a violation of the status quo governing the site. The episode underscores the fragile security situation surrounding Jerusalem’s most contested religious landmark and has prompted calls from international observers for restraint and dialogue to prevent further violence.