Israeli settlers storm Al-Aqsa complex through Lion’s Gate, forcing Friday prayer closure

Israeli settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque complex through Lions’ Gate to perform religious rites on Friday. Hundreds of settlers are seen chanting and dancing with protection from Israeli soldiers. The rites were led by Rabbi Yisrael Ariel, founder of the Temple Institute, which campaigns to demolish Al-Aqsa Mosque to rebuild the Jewish temple. The Bab al-Asbat and Bab al-Malik Faisal gates to the complex were closed in response, preventing Palestinians from attending Friday prayers. This comes the day after the Israeli anniversary of the occupation of East Jerusalem, known as Jersualem Day. Thursday saw riots in Jerusalem’s streets as settlers marched through occupied East Jerusalem. Far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben Gvir stormed Al-Aqsa complex with heavy military protection to raise the Israeli flag. Support stories that matter. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCR0fZh5SBxxMNYdg0VzRFkg/join Catch previous episodes of MEE LIVE, our biweekly news programme exploring the stories shaping our world through breaking coverage, expert analysis, and hard-hitting interviews. Originally airing Tuesdays & Thursdays at 12pm ET | 5pm BST Got a story tip or question? Reach us at [email protected] Subscribe to our channel: http://ow.ly/AVlW30n1OWH Subscribe to MEE Telegram channel to stay up to date: https://t.me/MiddleEastEye_TG Middle East Eye Website: https://middleeasteye.net Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@middleeasteye Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/MiddleEastEye Like us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/MiddleEastEye Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MiddleEastEye