JERUSALEM — Israeli authorities barred Palestinian worshippers from observing Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem’s Old City, citing security concerns amid ongoing regional tensions. The move, confirmed on Friday, March 20, 2026, has drawn condemnation from Palestinian officials and the Arab League, raising fears of further escalation during a sensitive period.
The restrictions come as Israel maintains heightened security measures, reportedly linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran. Even as Israeli officials have not detailed specific threats, access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, has been severely limited throughout the month of Ramadan. This year’s restrictions are particularly acute, extending through the final ten nights of Ramadan and into the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, marking the complete of the fasting month.
Palestinians have responded to the closures with calls to gather near the Old City walls to pray as close as possible to the Al-Aqsa compound. However, these gatherings have been met with force by Israeli police, who have reportedly used batons, stun grenades, and tear gas to disperse worshippers. The incidents have sparked protests and further inflamed tensions in the already volatile region.
A City in Mourning
Jerusalem’s Old City, typically bustling with activity in the days leading up to Eid al-Fitr, has taken on a somber atmosphere. Reports describe the area as unusually quiet, resembling a “ghost town,” with limited access granted to residents and business owners. Many Palestinian shops have been forced to close, with only pharmacies and essential food stores permitted to operate, creating significant economic hardship for local merchants.
“The restrictions have been devastating for our businesses,” said a Palestinian shopkeeper, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal. “We rely on the increased foot traffic during Ramadan and Eid to create a living. This closure is crippling us.”
The closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque throughout Ramadan has been a major point of contention. According to reports, the restrictions have lasted for 16 days, preventing Muslims from performing prayers and religious rituals at the site.
International Condemnation
The Arab League has strongly condemned Israel’s actions, calling the closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque a “flagrant violation” of the historical status quo. In a statement released on Monday, March 16, 2026, the League asserted that Israel, as an occupying power, has no sovereignty over occupied Palestinian territories, including Jerusalem and its holy sites. The League emphasized that the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf, under Jordanian authority, is the sole legitimate administrator of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The Guardian reported on the growing international concern.
“Israel, as an occupying power, has no right to restrict Muslim worship at the complex,” the Arab League stated, as quoted by the Palestinian news agency WAFA.
Escalating Tensions and Security Concerns
The decision to close the Al-Aqsa Mosque comes amid heightened regional tensions, particularly in the wake of escalating conflict with Iran. Israeli officials have cited security concerns as the primary justification for the restrictions, but have provided limited details about specific threats. The New York Times reported on March 7, 2026, that the temporary measure followed tensions stemming from increased Jewish activist presence on the contested grounds.
The restrictions also follow previous clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan. These incidents have raised concerns about potential further escalation and the possibility of wider unrest.
On March 20, 2026, Anadolu reported that Palestinians were urging worshippers to gather near the Old City to pray as close as possible to Al-Aqsa, marking the end of Ramadan. Free Palestine reported that Israel had locked the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound for days on end, including Fridays, the last ten nights, and into Eid al-Fitr.
Looking Ahead
The situation remains highly fluid, and the coming days will be critical in determining whether tensions will de-escalate or further escalate. Israeli authorities have not indicated when the restrictions on access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque will be lifted. Further announcements regarding security measures and potential negotiations are expected in the coming week. The international community continues to call for restraint and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
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