Surge in Settler Activity at Al-Aqsa Mosque
Since the onset of the Israeli military actions in Gaza on October 7, 2023, the Al-Aqsa Mosque has witnessed a significant increase in settler activity, with over 62,000 settlers reportedly storming the site. According to the Jerusalem Governorate, this surge includes 62,697 extremist settlers engaging in provocative prayers and dances within the mosque's courtyards, all under the protection of Israeli police forces. On a single day, 198 settlers were reported to have entered the mosque premises, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.
Impact on Palestinian Residents
The escalating situation has resulted in severe repercussions for Palestinian residents. The governorate's report indicates that 80 Palestinians have lost their lives, with 279 injured from live and rubber bullets since the beginning of the conflict. Additionally, there have been 1,971 arrests, and the Israeli courts have issued 107 house arrest decisions. The report also notes that Israeli forces have conducted 389 demolition operations, targeting homes, commercial properties, and agricultural facilities, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the area.
Ongoing Oppression and Legal Actions
The Jerusalem Governorate has condemned the actions of the Israeli authorities, which include imposing fines on residents and executing demolition orders. A notable case involves a young man, Muhammad Yasser Darwish, who was sentenced to 7 months in prison and a fine of 3,000 shekels after previously being under house arrest for five months. The authorities have also issued demolition orders for the homes of the Abu Shafe’ family in the Al-Bustan neighborhood of Silwan, indicating a systematic approach to displacing Palestinian families.
