Muslims call for mass presence at Aqsa after Israel locks Rahma gate

Palestinian activists have launched calls for a mass participation in congregational prayers starting noon Monday in front of the Bab al-Rahma, protest Israel’s recent closure of the gate with locks and chains.

Israeli forces last night broke into the Bab al-Rahma area from inside Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and closed off the building next to the gate with locks in order to prevent the Waqf Department, which is in charge of Muslim property in occupied Jerusalem, including al-Aqsa Mosque, from using it.

Israel has closed the gate in 2003 and ever since it has been issuing an order renewing the closure decision for one year.

Israeli forces have recently prevented Muslim worshipers and the mosque guards from praying in the area while Jewish fanatics are allowed access to it during their break-ins.