Full Breakdown
Restrictions on Worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque During Ramadan
2/28/2026, 11:49:53 PM
Overview of the Current Situation
During the second Friday of Ramadan, approximately 100,000 Palestinian worshippers attended prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem, despite stringent Israeli restrictions limiting access. Israeli authorities had imposed a cap of 10,000 worshippers allowed entry, primarily targeting men over 55, women over 50, and children under 12 accompanied by a relative. These measures have intensified since the onset of the conflict in Gaza in October 2023.
Restrictions and Enforcement
Israeli forces implemented thorough security screenings at checkpoints, particularly at the Qalandiya crossing from the West Bank. Reports indicate that many worshippers were turned away even when they possessed the required permits. For instance, Najati Oweida from Hebron was denied entry despite presenting his permit, expressing frustration over the strict procedures. Similarly, Ali Nawas from Nablus was forced to return home with his wife, who was also denied entry at the checkpoint.
Official Statements
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated their commitment to ensuring the safe passage of worshippers, asserting that they were making efforts to facilitate access to Al-Aqsa Mosque. Lt. Col. Ella Waweya, the IDF’s Arabic-language spokeswoman, emphasized that the military was coordinating security measures based on field assessments to allow worshippers to pray safely.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics argue that the restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities are excessive and discriminatory. The Jerusalem Governorate reported that Israeli forces not only limited access to the mosque but also closed several military checkpoints around the city, further restricting Palestinian movement. This has raised concerns about the broader implications for religious freedom and access to holy sites during Ramadan.
Attendance Figures and Reports
Despite the restrictions, attendance at Al-Aqsa Mosque has been significantly higher than the official cap. The Islamic Waqf, which administers the mosque, reported that around 80,000 worshippers attended the first Friday prayers of Ramadan. On subsequent nights, approximately 35,000 worshippers performed the Isha and Taraweeh prayers, showcasing a strong desire among Palestinians to access the mosque despite the challenges posed by Israeli security measures.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There are discrepancies in the reported numbers of worshippers attending prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, with some sources indicating attendance figures that exceed the official limits set by Israeli authorities. Additionally, there is a lack of clarity regarding the specific reasons behind the increased restrictions, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The occupation claims it has provided facilitation, but the procedures are strict,” — Najati Oweida, Worshipper
- “I was forced to return with her. How could she go back to Nablus alone?” — Ali Nawas, Worshipper
- “On the second Friday of the month of Ramadan, the Israel Defense Forces continues to make every effort to ensure the safe passage of worshipers through the crossings…” — Lt. Col. Ella Waweya, IDF Spokeswoman
This situation at Al-Aqsa Mosque highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding access to religious sites in Jerusalem, particularly during significant periods such as Ramadan. The interplay of security measures and religious observance continues to shape the experiences of Palestinian worshippers.
