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Cops forcefully clear Eid prayers outside Jerusalem's Old City amid Iran war closure

Hundreds of Muslim worshipers clashed with Israeli police while attempting to hold Eid al-Fitr prayers outside Jerusalem's Old City, as key holy sites remain closed due to the ongoing war with Iran. Authorities have barred access to the Old City for non-residents since late February, citing security concerns, and have imposed strict limits on public gatherings. The closures include the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds near Herod's Gate after worshipers attempted to push through security barriers. At least one person was arrested. After briefly allowing prayers to proceed in the street, officers again moved in to clear the area. A fragment from an intercepted Iranian missile later struck near the Old City, causing property damage but no injuries.

The restrictions have drastically reduced Eid attendance, which typically draws tens of thousands to the Temple Mount compound. Researchers say this marks the first time the site has been closed during the final days of Ramadan and Eid since Israel captured East Jerusalem in 1967. Many Palestinians described the closure as unprecedented and deeply painful, while police said they were enforcing wartime safety guidelines.

The situation has intensified longstanding tensions over access to Jerusalem's holy sites, with critics accusing authorities of unequal enforcement and excessive force. For many Muslim worshipers, the inability to pray at Al-Aqsa during Ramadan has been described as a profound personal and spiritual loss.

Original article source: https://www.timesofisrael.com/cops-forcefully-clear-eid-prayers-outside-jerusalems-old-city-amid-iran-war-closure/
Source Id: 9142818984

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