Israel stops settler visits to Al-Aqsa after clashes erupt

Further clashes erupted at the Al-Aqsa compound yesterday and today after Israeli forces stormed the area once again during the last 10 days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, an eyewitness told MEMO.

During clashes on Tuesday, Israeli police in riot gear used tear gas in the Qibla Mosque to disperse worshippers. In response, Palestinian youth erected a barricade inside the mosque where approximately 30 youth took cover in preparation for further clashes.

Palestinian medics were on hand in case of any violence.

After a strong Palestinian resistance, Israeli forces retreated to the Mughrabi Gate.

The head of the Jordanian Waqf Ministry, which is responsible for the compound, had said that there was an agreement with Israel that the Mughrabi Gate would not be opened during the last 10 days of Ramadan, Israel denies such a deal exists.

However, following the clashes, “the Israelis have agreed not to bring settlers in until after eid,” the eyewitness told MEMO.

Images by MEMO correspondent on the ground.

Worshippers gathered at Fajr [sunrise] time amid tensions and rumours of another Israeli incursion