Israel mulling restrictions on Al-Aqsa Mosque ahead of Ramadan

Israel is considering implementing a series of new restrictions on the Al-Aqsa Mosque and its surrounding areas in the Old City of Jerusalem ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This move has sparked widespread international concern, with fears that it could exacerbate tensions in the region.

According to a report by Israel's Channel 12, the Ministry of Defense has held multiple meetings with the Shin Bet, the Israeli intelligence agency, the police force, the prison authority, and the army regarding security plans for the area. These talks aim to develop a comprehensive plan to address potential security challenges during Ramadan.

These restrictions would only allow a few thousand people into the mosque, which is typically overcrowded during Ramadan. Furthermore, only specific age groups, including men over 55, women over 50, and children under 12, would be permitted entry. Collective prayers on Fridays would be capped at 10,000 people, and those wishing to attend would need to submit an application in advance.

Channel 12 reported that the draft, along with other decisions, will be submitted for review in the coming days. A source told the news channel that the "instability of the Ramadan holiday" will depend on the situation in Gaza. "If a ceasefire agreement is reached, then they estimate the situation will be calm, and if not, then they will prepare more troops in case of escalation."

Incidents of violence against Muslim worshippers are common at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam and also holds religious significance for Jews and Christians. Many Palestinians view protecting the Al-Aqsa Mosque as a national obligation, while Israel's increasing military presence in the area is seen as an attempt to assert national and religious ownership over the site.