Al-Aqsa Closed for First Time Since 1967; Palestinians Pray on Streets Amid Siege

In an unprecedented move, Israeli forces have barred Palestinian worshippers from performing Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. This marks the first time since 1967 that the holy site remained closed to the public on Eid day.

As Israeli troops sealed all main entrances, hundreds of worshippers were forced to hold their prayers on the streets and near the gates of occupied East Jerusalem.

The Jerusalem Governorate condemned the move as a "dangerous escalation" and a direct assault on religious freedom. Meanwhile, in war-torn Gaza, Palestinians gathered amidst the ruins of over 1,100 destroyed mosques to observe the festival. Despite the ongoing genocide and displacement, families maintained their Eid traditions, praying in open spaces and damaged structures. Local reports confirm that since the start of the conflict 21 days ago, access to Al-Aqsa has been systematically denied to most worshippers.