Al-Aqsa Mosque Reopens After 40-Day Closure Amid Regional Tensions

Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem reopened on April 9, 2026, after a closure lasting more than 40 days due to security measures imposed during the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began on February 28. The reopening coincided with a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, allowing for public gatherings at the site for the first time since the conflict escalated.

TRT WorldExpress TribuneAl-Aqsa Mosque reopens to worshippers for 1st Friday prayers after weeks-long closureMiddle East EyeIsrael to reopen Al-Aqsa, Holy Sepulchre after weeks-long closureIsrael to reopen Al-Aqsa Mosque, Church of the Holy Sepulchre after nearly 6 weeksTimes of IsraelTRT WorldAl-Aqsa Mosque reopens after 40-day closure - Pakistan Today

Israeli authorities announced the reopening of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, stating that hundreds of police officers and border guards would be deployed to ensure security for worshippers. The Islamic Waqf Department confirmed that access would be granted for dawn prayers, with entry permitted for all worshippers. Reports indicated that over 100,000 Muslim worshippers participated in the first Friday prayers following the reopening, highlighting the site's significance as Islam's third-holiest shrine.

TRT WorldIsrael to reopen Al-Aqsa, Holy Sepulchre after weeks-long closureIsrael to reopen Al-Aqsa Mosque, Church of the Holy Sepulchre after nearly 6 weeksAl-Aqsa Mosque reopens after 40-day closure - Pakistan TodayTimes of IsraelTRT WorldExpress TribuneMiddle East EyeAl-Aqsa Mosque reopens to worshippers for 1st Friday prayers after weeks-long closure

The reopening elicited strong emotional reactions from many attendees. Worshippers were seen weeping and offering prostrations of gratitude as they entered the compound. Mohammad Saaedeh, a 30-year-old worshipper, expressed hope that Al-Aqsa would remain open, emphasizing the unique importance of praying at the site.

Al-Aqsa Mosque reopens after 40-day closure - Pakistan Today

Despite the reopening, the situation remains tense. Israeli authorities have extended the hours for settler incursions into the Al-Aqsa compound, allowing them to enter from 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM and again from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. This extension has been criticized by Palestinian officials, including Mahmoud Al-Habbash, who condemned the actions of settlers as a violation of the site's historical status and a provocation that threatens regional stability.

Middle East Eye

Critics argue that Israel's closure of Al-Aqsa during the conflict was a pretext to tighten control over the site. The restrictions prevented Muslims from accessing the mosque during significant religious events, including Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, marking the first such limitations since Israel's occupation of East Jerusalem in 1967. The Jerusalem Governorate described the extended settler incursions as a dangerous escalation that undermines the status quo.

Middle East EyeIsrael to reopen Al-Aqsa, Holy Sepulchre after weeks-long closureTRT WorldIsrael to reopen Al-Aqsa Mosque, Church of the Holy Sepulchre after nearly 6 weeksAl-Aqsa Mosque reopens to worshippers for 1st Friday prayers after weeks-long closureTimes of IsraelExpress TribuneTRT WorldAl-Aqsa Mosque reopens after 40-day closure - Pakistan Today

Israeli police stated that the reopening of holy sites was based on updated guidelines from the Home Front Command, aimed at securing visitors. However, the Palestinian Authority and various religious leaders have expressed concerns over the implications of the reopening and the ongoing security measures that continue to affect worshippers.

As the situation evolves, the reopening of Al-Aqsa Mosque will likely continue to be a focal point of tension between Israeli authorities and Palestinian worshippers. Observers will monitor the impact of the extended settler incursions and any further developments in the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran.

Middle East Eye