**Title: Hundreds of Israelis Storm Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound During Sukkot Celebrations**
**Date: September 30, 2026**
In a significant event on the fifth day of Sukkot, hundreds of Israelis entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, marking a continuation of tensions surrounding the site. According to reports from the Jerusalem governorate and the Islamic Waqf Department, approximately 700 Israelis participated in the incursion, which included notable figures such as former lawmaker Moshe Feiglin.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, referred to by Muslims as al-Haram al-Sharif and by Jews as the Temple Mount, is a site of profound religious significance for both communities. The historical status quo governing the compound stipulates that it is administered exclusively by the Islamic Waqf, allowing only Muslim worship. However, recent actions have raised concerns regarding adherence to this arrangement.
On September 28, during the ongoing Jewish holiday of Sukkot, Israeli settlers were reported to have performed religious rituals and sang songs within the mosque's courtyards, actions that are viewed as violations of the established norms governing the site. The Jerusalem governorate noted that while these activities were taking place, Israeli authorities continued to impose restrictions on the entry of Palestinian Muslims to the compound.
This incursion follows a pattern observed since the beginning of the Jewish holiday season earlier in the month. On September 26, the first day of Sukkot, there were reports of 966 Israelis entering the compound through the Moroccan Gate, accompanied by Israeli police. These gatherings have drawn attention for their potential to escalate tensions in an already volatile environment.
In an effort to facilitate access for the Israeli visitors, authorities closed roads leading to the Lions’ Gate area and the entrance to al-Turba Road, which connects to the town of Silwan. This decision has been criticized by Palestinian officials, who argue that it further restricts the movement of Palestinian worshippers.
The Jewish holiday season began with Rosh Hashanah on September 12-13, followed by Yom Kippur on September 21-22, and continues with Sukkot, which runs until October 2. Following Sukkot, Simchat Torah, a celebration marking the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings, will take place on October 3.
The situation at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound remains a focal point of tension between Israeli and Palestinian communities, with each side holding deep-seated historical and religious claims to the site. The recent influx of Israeli visitors during the holidays has raised alarms among Palestinian leaders, who fear that such actions could lead to further unrest in the region.
As the holiday period continues, the dynamics surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound will likely remain a critical issue, with potential implications for the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The international community is closely monitoring developments, as calls for maintaining the status quo and ensuring access for all worshippers persist.