Israel prevents Muslim worshippers entering Jerusalem

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Israeli forces Today (13.08.2010), tightened security measures along the roads and at the blockades leading to the holy city of Jerusalem.

Today marks the first Friday in the holy month of Ramadan and both men and women flocked to the military blockade of Qalandiya in the hope of being allowed through to pray the congregational prayer in Jerusalem. However, Israeli forces prevented all men below 50 and all women below 45 from crossing into the city.

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Those who meet these stringent age restrictions are only allowed into Jerusalem on Friday’s during the month of Ramadan each year. Nevertheless, young men and women prohibited from entering the city persist in their attempts to obtain authorisation to cross the blockade.

Entry into Jerusalem to pray via bypass roads is both difficult and dangerous and the majority are under the control of Israel’s occupation forces. If caught and detained, individuals are made to sign a pledge that they will not re-attempt entry into the city. Many of those detained are beaten and humiliated by the Israeli soldiers manning the checkpoints.

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MEMO Photographer: Ibtehal Mansour