AMMAN: Tens of thousands of worshippers gathered at Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem on Friday, the first congregational prayers held at the site after a 40-day closure.
The mosque had been shut and prayers suspended for weeks, with authorities citing the ongoing war with Iran. Its reopening produced a significant turnout, as crowds began arriving from early morning and filled the courtyards of the compound.
According to the Jerusalem Islamic Awqaf Department, about 100,000 worshippers attended the Friday prayer, Palestinian media reported.
Israeli security forces were heavily deployed across occupied Jerusalem, particularly around the Old City. Witnesses reported the installation of iron barriers at key entry points, including the gates leading to the mosque compound.
Security personnel were seen stopping young men, checking identification documents and detaining some individuals. Palestinian sources also said that certain worshippers who had previously been barred from entering the mosque were prevented from praying in nearby areas, including along Al-Mujahideen Road near Lions Gate.
In neighboring Jordan, a march held after Friday prayers highlighted support for the Hashemite custodianship of Jerusalem’s holy sites, the Jordan News Agency reported.
A march was held in Jordan after Friday prayers highlighted support for the Hashemite custodianship of Jerusalem’s holy sites. (Jordan News Agency)
Demonstrators emphasized the historic and religious significance of safeguarding the city, voicing opposition to measures they said threaten Palestinian identity and the status of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Participants also reiterated backing for King Abdullah II, who has repeatedly said that the custodianship of Jerusalem’s Islamic and Christian holy sites is a non-negotiable priority for the kingdom.
