Despite of Israeli restrictions, 20,000 Palestinians perform Friday prayer in Aqsa

OCCUPIED PALESTINE, March 01 (YPA) – Thousands of Palestinian worshipers were able to perform Friday prayer in the Aqsa Mosque, as Israeli police banned the entry of hundreds of people into the holy site.

According to The Islamic Endowments Department, about 20,000 worshipers were allowed in as Israeli police banned the entry of hundreds of people into the holy site for the 16th consecutive Friday prayer.

Ahead of the Friday prayer, the Israeli police blocked several roads leading to the Old City of Jerusalem and hindered the movement of Palestinian citizens.

For the 21st consecutive week,  the occupation forces have imposed strict military measures at the gates of the Old City and the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The occupation has intensified its presence at the gates of the Old City, the roads, and streets leading to Al-Aqsa Mosque, as well as its external gates.

The forces arrested several youths after assaulting them while they were heading to Al-Aqsa, at the Asbat Gate, and prevented hundreds from entering Al-Aqsa.

The occupation forces assaulted and beat two women near the Yusufiya Cemetery which is adjacent to the external gate of Bab al-Asbat.

Meanwhile, Hundreds of youths performed Friday prayers in the streets and neighborhoods surrounding Al-Aqsa Mosque after being prevented from reaching the mosque.

E.M