Jerusalem Governorate warned that recent developments at Al Aqsa Mosque represent a dangerous and systematic escalation by extremist settler groups seeking to impose new realities inside the mosque’s courtyards.

The governorate said these groups have intensified their incursions under the cover of biblical and political occasions, while attempting to introduce what they describe as “animal sacrifices” into or near the holy site.

According to the governorate, eight documented attempts to bring sacrifices into or around Al Aqsa Mosque have been recorded since the beginning of the year during the first and second Passover seasons. It said this is the highest number recorded since 1967. In three cases, settlers reportedly managed to reach entrances near the mosque before being stopped.

The governorate also noted that 2025 witnessed three attempts to bring animal sacrifices into Al Aqsa Mosque, including two attempts to slaughter them after entry, and another case in which blood stained sacrificial meat was brought inside.

It warned of two upcoming dates that could see further escalation: May 15, 2026, which coincides with what settlers call “Jerusalem Day,” and May 22, 2026, which coincides with the biblical “Shavuot” holiday, along with a possible compensatory incursion on May 21.

Jerusalem Governorate called for a continuous Palestinian presence at Al Aqsa Mosque, describing it as the first line of defense against these attempts. It also urged local and international media to keep Al Aqsa at the center of attention and not allow ongoing violations to be ignored amid wider regional and global crises.