Islamonweb

Despite heavy Israeli restrictions, 80,000 Palestinians gathered at Al-Aqsa Mosque on Friday for the third Jumu'ah of Ramadan. Israeli forces imposed strict military measures, particularly at key checkpoints like Qalandia (north of Jerusalem) and the 300 checkpoint (Bethlehem-Jerusalem), preventing many from entering occupied Jerusalem. Men under 55 and women over 50 were denied access, even if they had special permits. At the gates of Al-Aqsa, security forces checked IDs and turned away young worshippers. However, thousands of Palestinians attempted to reach the mosque from the early morning hours, determined to perform their prayers despite the restrictions.

Inside the compound, Israeli settlers, escorted by military forces, entered Al-Aqsa’s courtyards and performed religious rituals, escalating tensions. Hamas condemned these actions, labeling them an attack on Palestinian religious freedoms.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, worshippers performed Friday prayers among the ruins of mosques destroyed by Israeli airstrikes. The humanitarian crisis worsens as Israeli attacks continue, with 590 Palestinians killed last week alone. UNICEF reports that more than 200 children have died in the latest assaults. Since the resumption of military operations, the death toll has surpassed 49,617, with thousands more feared trapped under rubble.

Despite the ongoing war, displacement, and severe restrictions, Palestinian resilience remains unwavering. Their presence at prayer serves as an act of defiance, reinforcing their steadfastness in the face of continued oppression.