The Palestinian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs released a detailed report documenting what it described as escalating Israeli violations against Islamic holy sites during July.
The report said Al-Aqsa Mosque witnessed 27 incursions by Israeli settlers who entered through the Moroccan Gate under heavy security protection, including visits by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, members of the Knesset, and figures from organizations associated with the Temple movement.
According to the ministry, the incidents included the performance of Jewish religious rituals, prostration practices, wearing tefillin, raising Israeli flags, bringing stones into the mosque courtyards, and installing a permanent shelter in the eastern area to serve visitors — a move the report described as the first of its kind since 1967.
Restrictions at Al-Aqsa Mosque
The report said Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards witnessed unprecedented actions, including a settler holding an engagement ceremony inside the compound accompanied by Hebrew-language rituals.
It added that Israeli authorities imposed strict measures on Muslim worshippers and staff of the Islamic Waqf Department, particularly on Fridays.
These measures included raids around the Qibli Prayer Hall and the Dome of the Rock, as well as the detention of Al-Aqsa Mosque preacher and Grand Mufti of Jerusalem Sheikh Muhammad Hussein for several hours before his release.
Restrictions at Ibrahimi Mosque
In Hebron, the report said Israeli authorities continued imposing restrictions on movement and worship at the Ibrahimi Mosque.
It stated that the call to prayer was prevented 155 times during July, citing security reasons.
The report also said at least 195 Israeli soldiers entered the mosque during the month, while the eastern entrance remained closed and the Al-Ashraf Corner continued to face repeated incursions since the beginning of 2025.
Attacks on Other Mosques
The report also documented attacks targeting several mosques.
It said three mosques were set on fire:
- Al-Taqwa Mosque in Masafer Yatta.
- Al-Kor Al-Qadim Mosque in Tulkarm.
- Qusra Mosque in Nablus.
The incidents caused significant material damage, while the facilities of Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque in Beit Ummar were also reportedly raided and damaged.
Ministry Warns of Changes to Holy Sites
The Ministry of Endowments warned of the risks posed by what it described as ongoing policies aimed at creating new realities inside Islamic holy sites.
It called on the international community and human rights and humanitarian organizations to fulfill their legal and moral responsibilities, urging immediate action to prevent further violations and preserve the existing historical and legal status of the sites.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.