90,000 Palestinians worship at Al-Aqsa Mosque under heavy Israeli security

In early March 2025, about 90,000 Palestinians attended prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound located in Jerusalem's Old City. This event marks the first Friday prayers of the holy month of Ramadan and comes after a period of stringent restrictions due to the ongoing tensions following the Israel-Hamas conflict. For many worshippers, particularly those from the West Bank, this occasion represents their first opportunity to enter Jerusalem since the last Ramadan, which had stringent limitations in place due to the conflict. Under a fragile ceasefire, which had been established since mid-January 2025, Israeli forces allowed entry only to men over 55 and women over 50 from the West Bank, creating a rare opportunity for many Palestinians who have faced significant barriers in crossing into Jerusalem. Despite the heavy presence of Israeli police, those who made it through reported no immediate signs of unrest during the prayers unlike previous occasions. Thousands lined up at the Qalandia checkpoint, illustrating the challenges faced by many seeking to reach the holy site. The security measures reflect the sensitive nature of the religious site, which has previously been the scene of clashes between Israeli police and Palestinians. The Old City, where the mosque is located, has a complex history tied to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and remains a focal point of tensions. The current situation around Jerusalem and the West Bank has been heavily influenced by historical events, especially since the expansion of restrictions following the Israel-Hamas war that broke out in October 2023. During the recent conflict, Israel had largely prevented Palestinians from accessing Jerusalem, a restriction that has recently been eased, albeit with significant conditions. As the prayers took place, hunger and shortages in neighboring Gaza have become a severe concern, with Israel enforcing a blockade that limits essential supplies such as food, fuel, and medicine for the population. This blockade is a response to the conflict and reflects ongoing tensions as both sides negotiate terms surrounding ceasefire agreements and humanitarian access. The security measures implemented during the prayers highlight the delicate balance that exists between allowing religious observance and maintaining control over a volatile situation. Overall, the large turnout at Al-Aqsa Mosque during the first Friday of Ramadan represents a moment of religious unity for many Palestinians. However, it is tempered by the ongoing political strife and military actions that continue to shape the lives of those in the region.