Full Breakdown
Israeli Police Prepare for Ramadan Amid Tensions at Al-Aqsa Mosque
2/17/2026, 3:04:48 AM
Operational Preparations and Security Measures
As Ramadan 2026 approaches, Israeli police have finalized their operational plans to ensure security around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, a site of significant religious importance for Muslims and a frequent flashpoint for tensions. Deputy Commander Arad Braverman announced that hundreds of officers would be deployed throughout Jerusalem, particularly in the Old City and around the Temple Mount, to facilitate freedom of worship while maintaining public order. This year, police will implement a robust security presence, especially on Fridays, which are traditionally the most crowded days for prayers.
The police strategy includes the establishment of layered security circles extending from Jerusalem's perimeter crossings to the Temple Mount itself. Braverman emphasized that there would be no use of magnetometers, which previously incited unrest when introduced in 2017. The police have also intensified efforts to monitor online incitement and prevent potential unrest, particularly in light of past escalations during Ramadan.
Restrictions and Controversies
Despite the police's commitment to security, Palestinian officials have raised concerns over restrictions imposed on worshippers. Reports indicate that permits for entry to the Al-Aqsa Mosque will be limited to men over 55 and women over 50, similar to criteria established in 2025. Additionally, the Islamic Waqf, responsible for managing the mosque, has alleged that Israeli authorities have blocked preparations for Ramadan, including the installation of shade structures and medical clinics.
Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, the former Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, condemned these restrictions as a disruption of worship and indicative of a broader agenda to assert control over the site. He warned that such measures would significantly reduce the number of worshippers compared to previous years, linking them to ongoing tensions and the Israeli government's policies towards Palestinians.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the Israeli government's actions, including Sheikh Sabri, argue that the restrictions reflect an aggressive plan to Judaize Jerusalem and undermine the authority of the Islamic Waqf. The situation has been further complicated by the actions of far-right politicians, such as Itamar Ben-Gvir, who have openly challenged the status quo at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Reports indicate that Ben-Gvir has encouraged settler incursions into the compound, which many view as provocative and inflammatory.
Moreover, the Israeli police's recent purchase of drone-mounted tear gas systems for crowd control has raised alarms about the potential for increased violence during Ramadan. Opposition figures have characterized these developments as part of a militarization strategy under Ben-Gvir's leadership.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the heightened tensions, the Jerusalem District Commander Avshalom Peled reaffirmed the police's commitment to safeguarding freedom of worship for all communities. He stated, “Our mission is to ensure that every Muslim can pray and observe the traditions of Ramadan safely, peacefully, and securely.” The police have also called on the public to disregard false information intended to incite panic.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While police maintain that their preparations aim to prevent unrest, Palestinian officials and community leaders express concerns over the implications of access restrictions and the potential for violence. The disparity between the police's assurances and the experiences of Palestinian worshippers highlights the ongoing complexities surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan.
What's Next
As Ramadan unfolds, the situation at the Al-Aqsa Mosque will be closely monitored, with police and community leaders alike aware that regional developments and political messaging will significantly influence the atmosphere surrounding this sacred site.
