Israeli Forces Close All Gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque, Evacuate Worshippers

In a rare and alarming development, all gates of the Al-Aqsa Mosque have been closed for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Israeli forces evacuated worshippers from the mosque, forcibly removing them from the holy site. The move has triggered a strong reaction from Palestinian groups and heightened tensions in Jerusalem.

The international community has so far remained silent, even as anger and outrage spread across the Muslim world over the desecration of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Earlier, Iran launched over 100 drones at Israel in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes that reportedly killed several high-ranking Iranian military officials, including IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, and targeted military and nuclear sites across Iran, including areas near Tehran.

The Israeli Ministry of Defense confirmed the drone attack by Iran and is actively working to intercept them.

The Israeli strikes, part of “Operation Rising Lion,” were aimed at neutralizing the Iranian threat and halting its nuclear ambitions.

In response, Iran confirmed civilian casualties and vowed a severe response, warning that Israel would “pay a heavy price.” Iranian officials had previously signaled a swift and forceful retaliation, possibly targeting Tel Aviv.

 The US has denied involvement in the Israeli strikes and emphasized the protection of its forces in the region.

Read More: Iran Strikes Back: Launches 100 Drones at Israel in Retaliation