Tensions increased in Jerusalem’s Old City after a group of Israeli settlers and Temple activists attempted to carry out an animal sacrifice near the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound ahead of the Jewish Passover festival.
According to videos shared on social media and Palestinian reports, several individuals were seen carrying young goats through the streets near Damascus Gate. They were reportedly heading towards one of the entrances of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The incident took place at a time when the mosque has been closed to Muslim worshippers for around 30 days. Israeli authorities said the closure was due to security reasons during and after Ramadan.
Israeli police quickly stopped the group before they could reach the compound. The individuals were detained, and the animals were seized. No sacrifice took place inside the Al-Aqsa Mosque area, and no violence was reported during the incident.
Palestinian officials strongly criticised the attempt. The Jerusalem Governorate described it as a “dangerous escalation” and warned that such actions could increase tensions. Officials said these moves are part of efforts by extremist groups to change the current religious status of the site.
They also warned that more such attempts could happen during the Passover period, which is expected to begin in early April 2026.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound is one of the most sensitive religious sites in the world. It is the third holiest site in Islam and is also important in Jewish belief as the location of ancient temples.
Under long-standing arrangements, the site is managed by the Jordanian Waqf, while Israel controls overall security. Non-Muslim prayer and religious rituals inside the compound are generally not allowed to prevent conflict.
Similar incidents have happened in recent years, where activists tried to bring animals to the area for religious sacrifice, but police stopped them.
As Passover approaches, security is expected to remain high in Jerusalem’s Old City to prevent further incidents.
This event once again highlights the ongoing tensions over religious rights, control, and historical claims at one of the world’s most sensitive locations.
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