Tensions Surround First Friday Prayers of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque

On February 20, 2026, approximately 80,000 Muslim worshipers attended the first Friday prayers of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. This event occurred amidst heightened security measures and restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities, which limited access for many Palestinians from the West Bank. The attendance was significantly lower than in previous years, where numbers could reach up to 200,000.

Boston HeraldTimes of IsraelThe GuardianIsraeli forces impose tight restrictions on West Bank worshippers entering Jerusalem80,000 Perform the First Friday Prayer of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque

Israeli police deployed over 3,000 officers throughout Jerusalem, particularly around the Qalandia checkpoint, to manage the influx of worshipers. Restrictions were notably stringent, with only men aged 55 and older, women aged 50 and older, and children under 12 allowed to enter from the West Bank. Reports indicated that many worshipers were turned away due to a lack of necessary permits, with the Jerusalem Governorate stating that thousands were stranded at checkpoints.

Israeli forces impose tight restrictions on West Bank worshippers entering Jerusalem

The situation at Al-Aqsa Mosque reflects a broader shift in the status quo governing access and prayer rights at this sensitive site. Experts have warned that the longstanding agreement, which historically allowed only Muslims to pray at the mosque, has been undermined by actions from the Israeli government and far-right groups. Recent incidents include the arrest of Muslim caretakers and restrictions on the Islamic Waqf, the Jordanian authority managing the site. These developments have raised concerns about potential unrest, as changes to the status quo have historically led to escalations in violence.

The Guardian

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who has been criticized for his hardline stance, stated, “Of course, there is freedom to worship, whoever wants to pray, ahlan wa’sahlan. Whoever comes to disturb the peace, we will thrash him.” This sentiment reflects the government's approach to maintaining order during Ramadan, which many perceive as aggressive. In contrast, critics argue that the government's actions represent an encroachment on religious freedoms and an attempt to assert control over the site.

Times of Israel

Critics, including members of the Islamic Waqf and local Palestinian leaders, have condemned the Israeli government's measures as an attack on the rights of Muslim worshipers. They argue that the restrictions are part of a broader strategy to alter the demographic and religious landscape of Jerusalem. Jihad Bisharat, a local activist, lamented the increased police presence, stating, “When you go into the Old City now, you’d think you’re entering a Border Police base.”

Times of Israel

There are discrepancies regarding the number of worshipers turned away at checkpoints, with some sources reporting tens of thousands denied entry, while others cite lower figures. Additionally, the Jerusalem Governorate and the Islamic Waqf have provided differing accounts of the number of staff members detained or banned from the site, highlighting the lack of clarity surrounding the situation.

The Guardian

As Ramadan progresses, tensions are expected to remain high, with potential for further confrontations at Al-Aqsa Mosque. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, as any significant changes could have broader implications for Israeli-Palestinian relations and regional stability.

The Guardian