Israeli Settlers Storm Al-Aqsa Mosque during Jewish Holiday

On Monday, a large number of Israeli settlers celebrated the Jewish Throne Day by forcefully entering the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem. This was the second consecutive day of such incidents.

The Significance of Sukkot

Sukkot is a week-long Jewish holiday that commenced on September 29 and will conclude on October 6. It marks the end of the Jewish holiday season, which began with the celebration of Rosh Hashanah (New Year) on September 15.

Israeli Settlers Storm Al-Aqsa Mosque

Under the protection of Israeli police, hundreds of Israeli settlers entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound through the Mughrabi Gate. An anonymous official from the Jordanian-run Islamic Endowments Department confirmed this information and stated that the settlers explored the mosque’s courtyards and attempted to perform “Talmudic rituals.”

Previous Incidents and Israeli Occupation

Just a day prior, around 860 settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque, according to the Islamic Endowments Department. It is worth noting that the Israeli police have allowed settlers to enter the mosque since 2003, despite consistent condemnation from Palestinians. Al-Aqsa Mosque holds significant religious value as the third holiest site for Muslims worldwide. However, Jews refer to it as “Temple Mount,” asserting that it once housed two ancient Jewish temples.

East Jerusalem, where the Al-Aqsa Mosque is located, was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. In 1980, Israel annexed the entire city, a move that remains unrecognized by the international community.