Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Israel Extends Al-Aqsa Prayer Ban Amid Rising Tensions

3/20/2026

36 7

Summary

Story summary

Israeli authorities extended the ban on Eid al-Fitr prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem to 21 days.
Worshippers gathered near the mosque and faced tear gas from Israeli forces.
The Old City remained subdued as shops closed, causing economic hardship for local traders.
Palestinian leaders condemned the restrictions as a violation of religious freedom, and the Jerusalem Governorate called the situation a dangerous escalation.

History

Historical Context

The 1929 Palestine riots, sparked by tensions over access to the Western Wall, resulted in the deaths of 133 Jews and 116 Arabs. The violence stemmed from longstanding grievances between Jewish and Arab communities, exacerbated by political and socioeconomic factors. Today, restrictions on religious practices at sites like Al-Aqsa Mosque continue to reflect these historical conflicts, contributing to ongoing unrest in East Jerusalem.

1 of 2

Story summary

Israeli authorities extended the ban on Eid al-Fitr prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem to 21 days.
Worshippers gathered near the mosque and faced tear gas from Israeli forces.
The Old City remained subdued as shops closed, causing economic hardship for local traders.
Palestinian leaders condemned the restrictions as a violation of religious freedom, and the Jerusalem Governorate called the situation a dangerous escalation.

1 / 2