In a controversial development, the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem witnessed a mass incursion by more than 2,250 Israeli settlers on Tuesday morning, according to the Islamic Waqf in Jerusalem. This intrusion came on the occasion of what settlers call the “anniversary of the destruction of the Temple.”
The incursion was carried out under heavy security protection from Israeli police forces, which were deployed extensively in the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque and imposed restrictions on the movement of Muslim worshippers and their access to the mosque.
Among those participating in the incursion were Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Likud party Knesset member Amit Halevi, who filmed themselves while entering the sacred site.
During the incursion, extremist settlers performed what they called “epic prostration” amid provocative dances and chants in the mosque’s courtyards. These practices come as part of what settlers consider a commemoration of the “destruction of the Temple,” an event they regard as a day of sorrow and mourning for the destruction of the First and Second Temples according to the Jewish narrative.
It is worth noting that settler groups had called in recent weeks for mass incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque on this occasion, refusing to limit their commemoration to their synagogues only.
This event comes amid escalating tension in the region, as Al-Aqsa Mosque is considered one of the most sensitive holy sites in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.