For the fourth consecutive Friday of Ramadan, Palestinian worshippers faced restrictions preventing them from reaching Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.
Despite having permits, many were turned away at military checkpoints, adding to the frustration and hardship experienced throughout the holy month.
Hundreds of elderly Palestinians arrived early at the Qalandiya checkpoint, a major crossing between Ramallah and Jerusalem, hoping to pray at the mosque. However, they encountered a strong Israeli military presence. Some were denied entry outright, while others faced lengthy security checks.
Among those blocked was Um Alaa, a 71-year-old woman from Gaza currently receiving medical treatment in the occupied West Bank. She expressed her heartbreak at being refused entry. “All I wanted was to pray at Al-Aqsa,” she said, describing her devastation.
Fatima Awawda, a 67-year-old American citizen, also faced rejection due to an alleged permit error. “I have an American passport, I am an elderly woman, yet they still stopped me,” she said, highlighting the personal and religious importance of Al-Aqsa.
Sami Qadomi, an elderly man from Jayyous, shared a similar experience. He left home before dawn, hoping his early arrival would help him gain access. Instead, he was also turned away, adding to the growing number of frustrated worshippers denied entry.
Earlier this month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved strict measures limiting Palestinian access to the mosque during Ramadan. Only men over 55, women over 50, and children under 12 were allowed entry, provided they obtained security clearance.
These restrictions coincided with ongoing visits by Israeli settlers to the mosque compound, further fueling tensions. As the holy month came to a close, many Palestinians were left feeling deprived of their right to worship at one of Islam’s holiest sites.