Al-Aqsa closure enters 31st day as restrictions extend across Al Quds holy sites

QUDS, March 30 (YPA) – Israeli occupation’s authorities continued on Monday to keep the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque closed for the 31st consecutive day, citing what critics describe as weak justifications linked to security conditions surrounding the US–Israeli confrontation with Iran.

Police have also intensified military measures around occupied city of Al Quds, as well as at the entrances to Palestinian cities and towns across the West Bank.

At the same time, groups advocating for a “temple” presence have escalated calls to enter Al-Aqsa Mosque during the upcoming Hebrew Passover holiday, including controversial appeals to conduct ritual sacrifices inside the compound and demands for it to be opened between April 2 and 9.

Authorities are using the ongoing “state of emergency” to tighten control over the site, amid growing public and religious calls urging people to gather at nearby checkpoints and attempt to break the restrictions and push for its reopening.

The restrictions have also impacted the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in al Quds.

On Sunday, worshippers were prevented from holding Palm Sunday Mass there, despite the church’s significance as one of Christianity’s holiest sites, including its association with the Holy Fire ceremony held annually on the Saturday before Easter, when the flame is traditionally shared with Christian communities around the world.

AA