Israeli Authorities Renew Ban on Elderly Worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

The Israeli occupation authorities have renewed the ban on elderly worshippers Abu Bakr Shimi and Nafisa Khweis from accessing Al-Aqsa Mosque, a significant site in Jerusalem for Muslims. Shimi, aged 66, and Khweis, 69, received orders extending their ban for a week, which could automatically extend for an additional six months. This decision follows a lengthy investigation session at the 'Al-Qishla' center in the Old City of Jerusalem. Shimi expressed concerns about a broader agenda to diminish the presence of worshippers at the mosque, particularly in light of statements made by Israeli officials regarding potential synagogue construction within the mosque grounds. Khweis reported that during her investigation, she was told she posed a danger to society, leading to her ongoing deportation from the mosque. The situation has escalated as thousands of Israeli settlers have reportedly stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque during the Jewish Sukkot holiday, with 3,244 settlers participating in the raids over two days, according to the Islamic Endowments Department. Eyewitnesses noted that settlers engaged in biblical rituals within the mosque, raising tensions in the already volatile area.