With Ramadan around the corner, set to begin this Wednesday or Thursday, Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque find themselves under rising tensions due to stringent Israeli measures imposed on worshippers during the holy month. These measures aim to regulate the influx of Palestinians wanting to participate in Ramadan prayers at the mosque, which is the first Qibla in Islam and a site of significant religious importance.

The Israeli security apparatus has devised a Ramadan plan that has been sanctioned by Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant. Key elements of the plan include strict recommendations limiting the entry of Palestinians from the West Bank to 10,000 worshippers on Fridays, with a possible increase to 12,000 depending on situational assessments by authorities. Additionally, the plans stipulate that only men aged 55 and above, women aged 50 and over, and children under 10 years accompanied by an adult will be allowed to enter, requiring prior approval.

Before the last ten days of Ramadan, another evaluation will occur to determine if the current policy needs adjustment based on ongoing developments. Enhanced security measures are anticipated around the mosque during this time, indicating a potential escalation of tensions, as these restrictions could affect the ability of many Palestinians to worship freely at this critical religious site during one of the holiest months for Muslims.