Al Aqsa Mosque reopens after 40-day Israeli closure, thousands pray at dawn amidst restrictions
Just read that Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem has reopened after a 40-day closure by Israel, which cited security concerns. Thousands of worshippers performed fajr prayer there this morning, despite Israeli police checking IDs, denying access to some, and reportedly assaulting worshippers at the gates. Notable cases include an activist being barred entry and another man detained in the courtyard. Palestinian worshippers expressed how much the closure affected them, emphasizing the mosque's religious significance as the site of the Prophet's ascension. Sheikh Omar Al Kiswani called for the mosque to remain full with worshippers at all times. It's reported that Israel routinely restricts access to Al Aqsa, including during Ramadan with age-based limits.
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