In the lead-up to the first Friday of Ramadan, numerous Palestinian women faced obstacles at the Qalandia checkpoint, hindering their journey to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem for prayers. Notably, 70-year-old Nawal Al-Mazraawi from Nablus expressed her heartbreak after being denied entry by Israeli soldiers, despite having previously visited the mosque without issue. She lamented over her thwarted wish to pray at Al-Aqsa this Ramadan, questioning the security reasons given for her denial of access given her age and health condition.

The situation at Qalandia checkpoint depicted a scene of tension where many, including older individuals and children, gathered in hopes of crossing the barriers established by Israeli forces, tasked with checking identities before allowing passage. The emotional impact of the restrictions was palpable, as many Muslims marked the beginning of Ramadan, a holy month traditionally observed with increased worship and reflection. Several locals voiced their disappointment and frustration over the limitations imposed on their religious practices during such a sacred period.

This incident highlights a broader trend of restrictions placed on Palestinian worshippers wishing to access religious sites during significant Islamic occasions, prompting concerns over civil liberties and freedom of worship within the occupied territories. The ongoing security measures have not only affected the immediate vicinity of Al-Aqsa but have served as a reminder of the heightened surveillance and control experienced by Palestinians, exacerbating tensions during an already sensitive time.