JERUSALEM: Israeli police have detained the imam of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem just days before the start of Ramadan, according to media reports.
The Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that Israeli forces arrested Sheikh Mohammad al-Abbasi on Monday evening from the mosque’s courtyards. Authorities have not publicly stated the reason for his detention.
The arrest comes as security measures around the mosque compound have been tightened and restrictions imposed on worshippers’ access ahead of the holy month. Local sources indicated that some religious figures have also been barred from entering the site.
The Palestinian group Hamas condemned the move, describing it as interference in the religious affairs of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Israeli police have announced that security arrangements at the compound will be further strengthened during Ramadan. Palestinian officials, however, have accused Israel of limiting access for worshippers.
Al-Aqsa Mosque, regarded as Islam’s third holiest site, is situated in East Jerusalem, which came under Israeli control following the 1967 war. Under longstanding arrangements, Jewish visitors are allowed to enter the compound but are not permitted to perform prayers there.
