Tens of Thousands Attend Friday Prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque Amid Israeli Detentions and Restrictions

Tens of thousands of worshippers, including West Bank residents, gathered at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem for Friday prayer on October 30, 2026. Jordan News Agency reported the event without specific details on Israeli actions, while Ma'ariv News Agency detailed that Israeli soldiers detained several worshippers and guards at the Sakhra al-Sarif gate and entered the prayer hall at the Bab al-Rahma gate during the prayer. The Israeli occupation has restricted access to Al-Aqsa Mosque for West Bank residents for over three years, and the event was described as a provocative move by Israeli forces against the worshippers. The event took place in the Old City of Jerusalem, with worshippers arriving since the morning. Israeli soldiers were present at multiple entrances to the mosque complex, including the Sakhra al-Sarif and Bab al-Rahma gates. The restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa Mosque have been a point of contention, with the Israeli occupation citing security concerns. The gathering was reported by both Jordan News Agency and Ma'ariv News Agency, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region. The event was described as a significant religious gathering and a demonstration of resistance against Israeli occupation. Jordan News Agency emphasized the scale of the attendance, while Ma'ariv News Agency provided more specific details on the Israeli military actions. The event underscores the continued conflict over access to holy sites and the impact of occupation on religious practices.