Israeli security forces have entered Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Beit-ul-Moqaddas amid fresh clashes in the area.
Witnesses said Sunday’s confrontation between Israeli forces and Palestinians began after officers entered the compound, Al Jazeera reported.
As of 0700 GMT, hundreds of Palestinians gathered outside the mosque to prevent Israeli police from going any further.
Imtiaz Tyab, reporting from Beit-ul-Moqaddas, said police forces used stun grenades and rubber-coated steel bullets against the Palestinians.
“It doesn’t appear as if the clashes went far beyond the gate where police entered, nor are there reports of any injuries,” he said.
“These confrontations at the Al-Aqsa Mosque come at a very tense time. Over the past several days, there have been frequent confrontations between Israeli security forces and Palestinian worshippers, who go to the site.”
“Stone throwing and fireworks towards the police and border police in the Temple Mount by masked youth. The force pushed back the rioters using anti-riot means. The situation is under control,” the statement said.
In recent days, during the Jewish new year of Rosh Hashana, there were clashes that damaged parts of the mosque.
Efforts by Israeli police to allow Jewish activists to tour the courtyards of the mosque have stirred strong reactions from Palestinians who fear Israel may change the rules for visiting the compound.
Sunday’s violence also occurred just ahead of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, when many Jews visit Beit-ul-Moqaddas.
