Thousands of Palestinians gathered at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem on April 9, 2026, marking a significant return to one of Islam’s holiest sites after a prolonged Israeli ban on access.
The mosque compound had been largely closed for around 40 days, with Israeli authorities citing security concerns linked to the broader regional conflict and ongoing tensions. During the closure, strict military measures were imposed across Jerusalem’s Old City, limiting or completely preventing access for Muslim worshippers.
Following the easing of restrictions, large numbers of worshippers entered the compound to perform prayers, many describing the moment as emotional after weeks of absence. The reopening comes after a period in which access to religious sites in Jerusalem had been severely restricted, disrupting key observances during Ramadan and other religious events.
Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in occupied East Jerusalem, is considered the third-holiest site in Islam and has long been a focal point of political and religious tensions in the region. The return of worshippers highlights the continued sensitivity surrounding access to the site, as tensions remain high across Jerusalem and the wider region.
