After 40 days of complete closure, Al-Aqsa was reopened to Palestinian worshippers this morning, following what has been described as one of the harshest periods imposed on the site. During this time, Palestinians were denied access throughout Ramadan and were also prevented from performing Eid al-Fitr prayers.

At dawn, thousands of Palestinians entered the compound, reflecting their deep attachment to the site despite weeks of restrictions and exclusion during one of the most sacred times of the year.

The closure went beyond security measures, directly impacting religious life, as worshippers were barred from practicing their faith during Ramadan and on Eid—sparking widespread anger and frustration.

Despite the reopening, the first day was marked by Israeli settlers storming the compound under police protection, performing Talmudic rituals inside. Palestinians described these actions as a desecration of the site and a provocation against Muslim worshippers.