Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
6 October 2023 | 09:34am CAT
2-min read

Occupied East Jerusalem witnesses influx of Israeli settlers during Sukkot, leading to confrontations and restrictions

Jerusalem (Al-Quds)– Tensions have escalated in occupied East Jerusalem as dozens of Israeli settlers forced their way into the Al-Aqsa masjid complex on the fifth day of the Sukkot holiday, according to reports from the Islamic Waqf Department.

The situation was described in detail during an interview on Radio Islam International with Abeer Zayyad, an archaeologist based in Al-Quds (Jerusalem). Zayyad shared insights into the events surrounding this year’s Sukkot holiday, highlighting the increase in the number of settlers entering the masjid and the resulting difficulties faced by Palestinians.

During the interview, Zayyad explained that more than 5,000 Israeli settlers managed to enter the Al-Aqsa masjid during the Jewish holiday. Palestinians were not allowed access to the masjid, especially during the morning hours from Fajr (dawn) until 3 o’clock in the afternoon. This separation of the masjid’s hours between Palestinians and Israeli settlers marks a significant departure from the previous status quo.

Zayyad further elaborated on the challenges faced by Palestinians, including attacks and street blockades that prevented people from reaching the old city of Jerusalem. The presence of thousands of Israeli settlers in the city added to the tensions, but these events were underrepresented in the media.

The interview also shed light on similar incidents at the Ibrahimi Masjid in Hebron, where Israeli settlers were allowed to enter and engage in celebratory activities. This heightened aggression toward Islamic sites was reportedly endorsed by Israeli government ministers, including one who suggested that Al-Aqsa masjid should be closed to Muslims entirely.

Zayyad emphasised that the situation has deteriorated significantly over the years, with restrictions on Palestinian access to the masjid and an increasing number of Israeli settlers entering the compound during Jewish holidays. Zayyad expressed concern about the normalisation of such actions and the lack of international response.

The interview concluded with a call for international solidarity and support for the Palestinian people in Jerusalem, who face ongoing pressures, demolitions, and arrests. Zayyad stressed that the situation could worsen in the future, especially with the overlap of the Jewish Easter holiday and Ramadan, potentially impacting access to Al-Aqsa masjid.

In the face of these challenges, Zayyad urged individuals and communities worldwide to stand in solidarity with the people of Jerusalem and to raise awareness about the ongoing tensions and restrictions on religious freedom in the region. The situation in Jerusalem remains a critical issue, requiring international attention and efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

May Allah make it easy.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat: