Hamas tells Israel al-Aqsa restrictions are a red line

Hamas tells Israel al-Aqsa restrictions are a red line
Gaza-based Palestinian group Hamas calls for a 'day of rage' against Israeli 'schemes' to assert control over the al-Aqsa Mosque.
2 min read
21 July, 2017
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh warned Israel on Thursday that its infringement on the al-Aqsa Mosque is a "red line" that will only stiffen the resistance to the Israeli occupation of East Jerusalem. 

The Gaza-based leader made the warning as he urged Palestinians to engage in a "day of rage" against Israel's increased security measures around the mosque compound.

Hanieyh said that the "al-Aqsa mosque and Jerusalem are a red line", and that "the closure and punitive measures on Jerusalemites and sanctuaries will not be allowed" in a televised speech.

Israel initially closed the sacred site, which is known to Jews as the Temple Mount, after two Israeli soldiers were killed by Arab-Israeli attackers. 

On Friday, Israeli authoritiesprevented access to the mosque for men under the age of 50.

Palestinian groups argue that the measures are in fact part of a broader hardline Israeli plan to change the status quo of the sacred site, which is revered by both Muslims and Jews.

In his speech, Haniyeh accused "the Zionists" of preventing Muslims from practicing their faith as well and called upon Palestinians to resist "schemes" to control the area.

In response to the measures, Muslim worshippers have boycotted the al-Aqsa Mosque to snub the increased security measures implemented by Israel.

Despite this, Israel's cabinet on Friday decided that the metal detectors will stay, likely paving way for further unrest around Jerusalem.