Dozens of Israeli settlers stormed the backyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque this morning to mark what they describe “the Destruction of the Temple,” which is observed on August 9, according to the Jewish calendar.
The Israeli police opened Almaghraba gate, deploying special units to provide protection for the settlers. The police shut down a number of gates leading into the mosque, preventing Palestinians from entering.
#BDS Israeli settlers storm #AlAqsa ahead of Jewish holiday of Tisha B'Av https://t.co/c54tP5JZlO
— Love 4 Palestine (@WithPalestine) August 11, 2016
Palestinian journalist, Mahmoud Abulata, told SAFA News Agency, “Some 180 Israeli settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque this morning, marching in groups to provoke Palestinian worshipers who faced them with chants.”
Israeli police kicked two Palestinians out of the Mosque after clashes erupted with invading Israeli settlers near the Gate of Hitta.
https://twitter.com/MOHAMMEDDDAYA/status/764713696153182208
(Breaking: Israeli settlers storm Al-Aqsa Mosque to mark ‘Temple Destruction’)
Israeli forces have intensified their presence in Jerusalem and erected more checkpoints in the city to provide protection for Israeli settlers.
Palestinians in Jerusalem have called for larger Palestinian presence at the mosque.
(PC, SAFA)
