Tensions flare as Israeli settlers enter Al-Aqsa compound

JERUSALEM: Fresh tensions have erupted in occupied East Jerusalem after Palestinian authorities reported that dozens of Israeli settlers entered the compound of Al-Aqsa Mosque under Israeli police protection, reigniting concerns over the future of one of the world’s most sensitive religious sites.

According to the Palestinian news agency WAFA, the group entered the mosque compound on Wednesday and toured various courtyards while carrying out religious rituals. Palestinian officials described the incident as part of what they view as a broader effort to increase Israeli presence at the site and alter its historical and religious character.

Al-Aqsa Mosque holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide as Islam’s third-holiest site. The area is also revered by Jews, who refer to it as the Temple Mount and believe it was once the location of two ancient Jewish temples.

The latest developments have intensified an already sensitive debate surrounding control and access to the holy compound, which has frequently been at the center of tensions between Israelis and Palestinians.

Palestinian officials accused Israel of taking gradual steps to strengthen its authority over the area. They argue that increasing visits by Israeli settlers and changes in security arrangements are contributing to efforts to reshape the identity of occupied East Jerusalem.

Adding to the controversy, recent reports in Israeli media suggested that Israeli police have launched recruitment efforts targeting religious Jewish candidates and activists interested in serving at the Al-Aqsa compound. According to reports, the initiative is aimed at increasing staffing levels as the number of visitors to the site continues to rise.

Palestinian authorities have strongly criticized the move, describing it as a dangerous development. The Jerusalem Governorate said the issue goes beyond recruitment and reflects broader concerns about who exercises authority over the mosque compound.

Officials emphasized that the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf Department remains the only body authorized to oversee and manage the mosque under long-standing arrangements. The Waqf operates under the supervision of Jordan’s Ministry of Awqaf and is responsible for the administration of the holy site.

The dispute comes amid ongoing political and diplomatic tensions over the status of East Jerusalem. Palestinians view East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state, while the city’s status remains one of the most contentious issues in the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

With emotions running high and religious sensitivities deeply intertwined with politics, developments at Al-Aqsa continue to attract international attention. Observers warn that any changes to the status quo at the holy site could have significant implications for regional stability and future peace efforts in the Middle East.