In September 2024, the Palestinian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs reported alarming incidents at two significant Islamic sites in the West Bank: Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Ibrahimi Mosque. The ministry stated that Israeli settlers carried out 21 incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque during the month, which is considered a critical religious site for Muslims. Additionally, the call to prayer was banned 69 times at the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, including 19 consecutive instances for the dawn prayer. This escalation of restrictions and incursions raises serious concerns about the preservation of Islamic heritage and the rights of Muslims to practice their faith freely.
The reported incursions at Al-Aqsa Mosque were characterized by the presence of extremist figures, including Knesset member Moshe Feiglin, who participated in Talmudic rituals within the mosque. The Palestinian Ministry condemned these actions, viewing them as direct attacks on Islamic holy sites. Furthermore, the ministry highlighted that the Israeli occupation forces have taken measures to diminish the Islamic character of the Ibrahimi Mosque, including the erection of Israeli flags and candlesticks on its roof, and the organization of Talmudic prayers in the occupied section of the mosque.
The Ibrahimi Mosque, a site of religious significance, has been a focal point of tension since its division in 1994, following a tragic massacre that claimed the lives of 29 Palestinian worshipers. Currently, the mosque is divided, with 63% designated for Jewish use and 37% for Muslims. This division has led to heightened security measures, with approximately 1,500 Israeli soldiers guarding the 400 settlers residing in the area. In light of these ongoing violations, the Palestinian Ministry has urged the international community to intervene and safeguard the rights of Muslims to perform their religious practices at these holy sites.
