Israel Sets Ramadan Attendance Cap at Al Aqsa Amid Gaza War Concerns
In anticipation of potential unrest during the upcoming Ramadan month, Israel has announced a limit on the number of Muslim worshippers allowed to attend prayers at Jerusalem's Al Aqsa Mosque. The move comes amidst heightened tensions over the Gaza war and concerns about maintaining peace at the sensitive holy site.
Al Aqsa Mosque, a revered sanctuary for Muslims worldwide, is situated in East Jerusalem, a territory annexed by Israel after the 1967 war. The location holds profound significance for Palestinians and Jews alike, often serving as a focal point for political and religious tensions.
Israeli authorities have frequently enforced restrictions on access to Al Aqsa, particularly during Ramadan, which commences this year around March 10th. In the past, limitations have primarily targeted younger Palestinians from Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank. However, with the Gaza conflict entering its fifth month, apprehensions about potential disturbances have escalated.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir disclosed that his proposal to restrict most Muslim citizens from attending Friday prayers during Ramadan was overturned by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite this, a decision has been made to cap attendance at 40,000 to 50,000 individuals, a compromise from initial suggestions of allowing 120,000 to 150,000 worshippers.
The announcement has sparked condemnation from Arab leaders, with opposition lawmaker Ahmad Tibi denouncing Ben-Gvir's involvement and Netanyahu's acquiescence. Concerns persist that the situation could exacerbate tensions in the already volatile region.
Ben-Gvir expressed disappointment that his recommendation to authorize police intervention to remove Hamas-affiliated flags or symbols within the Al Aqsa compound was not adopted. He argued that allowing such displays would signify a capitulation to Hamas influence in Jerusalem, a prospect Israel vehemently opposes.
In response to the Gaza conflict initiated by Hamas, Israel has tightened restrictions on Palestinian access to Al Aqsa and other sites. While sectarian unrest during previous conflicts has prompted concerns, Ben-Gvir credited his administration's "zero tolerance" policy towards incitement for maintaining relative calm among Arab citizens. Critics, however, contend that such measures risk infringing on civil liberties and exacerbating tensions in the region.
