Tension Flares as Hundreds of Israeli Settlers Break into Aqsa Mosque

Hundreds of Israeli settlers, escorted by policemen, stormed Jerusalem’s al-Aqsa Mosque on Wednesday through the Maghareba Gate.

News ID: 443595

Date: 23 February 2019 - 13:01

RNA - Nearly 300 Israeli settlers and 15 intelligence officers toured the site as part of the morning break-in shift, Palinfo reported.

Over the recent days, tension has been running high at and around al-Aqsa Mosque after Israeli settlers locked the al-Rahma Gate before Muslim worshipers. Israeli police also placed chains on a metal gate at the entrance to Bab al-Rahma building to prevent Muslims from using it.

But, Muslim worshipers smashed the iron locks and chains stealthily set up by Israeli police overnight at al-Rahma Gate. Israeli cops violently attacked the Muslim worshipers and arrested scores of them, including women.

Palestinians demand free access to Bab al-Rahma area, which is part of the holy Muslim compound, and strongly object to Israeli interference in their right to worship at their sacred place. Israeli police has banned Muslim access to Bab al-Rahma building for over a decade, raising concern about its future.

847/940