Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
31 July 2023 | 10:54am SAST
2 min read

In this week’s Palestine Report with Ml Ebrahim Moosa, the escalating situation at Masjid al-Aqsa in Palestine was brought to light, shedding new insight into the Israeli settler incursions and their impact on the region. The interview highlighted the increasing number of settlers allowed to enter the masjid and the potential ramifications of this politically motivated move.

Last week Thursday, Jews observed the day of Tisha B’av. The day’s observance has been weaponised by the temple movement and Israel’s right-wing government to advocate for building temples upon the Masjid al-Aqsa.

During this year’s Tisha B’Av, a concerning development occurred, with 2,180 Israeli settlers, under armed guard, entering Masjid al-Aqsa. This marked an overall increase in the number of settlers present at any given time, and they even used an additional gate, Bab al-Asfah, to intensify their assault on the sacred site.

Picture: Daily Sabah                                     Isreali settlers occupy Masjid al-Aqsa on 27 July 2023

One of the most troubling aspects of the incursion was the time division implemented, where Muslims were denied entry during the period of settler invasions. Muslims gathered outside the masjid, unable to enter even for their Dhuhr Salah, indicating an infringement on their religious rights.

The interview also touched upon the reactions from Jordan, which holds custodianship over Masjid al-Aqsa. While statements were made by Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, many felt that they did not fully recognise the gravity of the situation or respond with the urgency it demands. The apparent apathy from the wider Muslim world raised questions about the lack of mainstream media coverage and broader support for the Palestinians.

In a significant development, Palestinian resistance fighters from the al-Ayyash Battalion, possibly linked to Hamas, launched a rocket from the occupied West Bank, targeting Israeli settlement areas. This move signifies a shift in tactics, with rockets traditionally being launched from Gaza.

Picture: Twitter

Additionally, the interview touched on the ongoing attempts for Saudi-Israeli normalisation. While Joe Biden hinted at progress toward a deal, the interview emphasised that it remains uncertain due to the Israeli government’s unwillingness to make concessions. Saudi Arabia seeks security cooperation with the United States, while the US looks for support in preserving the two-state solution and aiding the Palestinian Authority.

The radio interview revealed the growing tensions at Masjid al-Aqsa and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation calls for immediate attention and genuine efforts from the international community to protect the sanctity of Masjd al-Aqsa and work towards a lasting resolution.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Muallima Annisa Essack here.