On the first Friday of Ramadan, Israeli occupation forces turned Jerusalem into a virtual military zone, imposing strict restrictions on Palestinians’ access to Al-Aqsa Mosque for Friday prayers. Roads and entrances to the Old City were heavily deployed with military checkpoints, and identities of worshippers were scrutinized.

Hebrew media reported around 3,000 Israeli personnel deployed across the city, particularly in the alleys leading to the Aqsa Compound. Only about 2,000 Palestinians managed to pass through Qalandiya checkpoint toward Jerusalem in the morning, while thousands were stranded, reportedly denied entry once the “permitted number” was reached.

Israeli forces prevented journalists, including an Al Jazeera Media Network reporter, from covering Palestinians waiting to travel to prayers at the Al‑Aqsa Mosque (Second day of Ramadan) at the Qalandia checkpoint, interrupting broadcasts and blocking their work.

Al Jazeera correspondent Tharwat Shaqra confirmed that the checkpoint was heavily fortified with concrete blocks, drones, and reinforced personnel. Four paramedics were detained, and journalists’ work was obstructed. High-ranking officials, including the head of the Civil Administration, two Israeli army commanders, and the Coordinator of Government Activities (COGAT), oversaw the measures. Entry now requires special daily permits, security approval, and digital documentation upon returning to the West Bank.

According to Palestine info center, Israeli forces also detained four paramedics at the same checkpoint and tightened military measures around Jerusalem, restricting medical crews as well as mobility for worshippers.

Israel announced that only 10,000 West Bank Palestinians per week would be allowed to perform Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa during Ramadan, with additional restrictions based on age (over 55) and permit conditions.

Sheikh Ikrima Sabri, Imam and preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque, condemned the measures as an imposition of a new reality by force, restricting worship and celebrations, while allowing Jewish extremist incursions. He emphasized that Al-Aqsa can accommodate around half a million worshippers, and that Israel’s restrictions aim to prevent mass demonstrations of Muslim presence at the holy site.

The Jerusalem Governorate condemned the measures, stating they aim to reduce worshippers’ numbers and deny Palestinians their right to access their holy sites.