Escalating Tensions: Israeli Police Violence Against Journalists Amid War with Iran

On March 21, 2026, Israeli police violently dispersed a group of journalists outside the Old City of Jerusalem, resulting in injuries and equipment damage. This incident occurred during the Tarawih prayers of Ramadan, when Muslim worshippers were barred from accessing the Al-Aqsa Mosque due to wartime restrictions. Police reportedly pushed worshippers away from the mosque and used stun grenades against them, leading to a confrontation with journalists documenting the events. A CNN producer, Abeer Salman, sustained a fractured wrist during the altercation, which involved police confiscating memory cards and damaging equipment.

CNNTimes of IsraelDawn

The Israeli police claimed that the journalists were part of the disturbances and only identified themselves as reporters after being detained. However, the Union of Journalists in Israel condemned this statement as “factually incorrect,” asserting that police had intentionally targeted journalists. Nir Gontarz, a union member, emphasized that the attack was deliberate, stating, “It wasn’t a byproduct; it wasn’t coincidental, it was an intentional attack on journalists.” The Foreign Press Association also condemned the incident, calling for accountability and action against the officers involved.

CNN

In response to the incident, CNN issued a statement demanding an explanation and accountability for the assault, asserting that such actions against journalists are unacceptable, especially during wartime when press freedoms are critical.

CNN

The violence against journalists coincides with heightened tensions in Jerusalem, where access to religious sites has been severely restricted due to the ongoing war with Iran. The Al-Aqsa Mosque, a significant site for Muslims, has been closed during the last days of Ramadan for the first time since Israel's annexation of East Jerusalem in 1967. This closure has led to widespread feelings of loss among worshippers, with many expressing that Ramadan without access to the mosque is a deeply painful experience.

Jerusalem's Muslims despair as war shuts Al Aqsa Mosque for EidTimes of IsraelDawn

As the conflict escalates, Israeli authorities have implemented strict security measures, including banning gatherings of more than 50 people and closing access to holy sites. These actions have sparked protests and clashes between police and worshippers, further inflaming religious tensions in the region.

Dawn

The ongoing conflict and police actions have created a climate of fear and uncertainty among local communities. Many residents, including worshippers and journalists, feel increasingly vulnerable as violence escalates. The inability to access the Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan has been described as a personal loss, with worshippers articulating feelings of heartbreak over the situation.

Times of Israel

As the situation develops, conflicting reports continue to emerge regarding the extent of police violence and the impact of the war on local communities. The Israeli police maintain that their actions are necessary for security, while critics argue that these measures disproportionately affect Palestinian worshippers and journalists. The ongoing conflict raises concerns about the future of press freedoms and religious access in Jerusalem, as well as the broader implications for peace in the region.

Times of Israel

• “It wasn’t a by product, it wasn’t coincidental, it was an intentional attack on journalists.” — Nir Gontarz, Union of Journalists in Israel

CNN

• “We demand an explanation and accountability for this unprovoked assault and are pursuing this matter with the relevant authorities.” — CNN Statement

CNN

• “Today, Al-Aqsa has been taken from us. It’s a sad and painful Ramadan,” — Wajdi Mohammed Shweiki, Worshipper

Times of Israel

The situation remains fluid, and the international community continues to monitor developments closely as tensions in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas persist.

Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem remains closed