No Letup in Israeli State Terror

by Stephen Lendman (stephenlendman.org - Home - Stephen Lendman)

Overnight Wednesday, Israel dismantled unacceptable metal detectors, high-tech cameras and other security devices at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem's Old City.

All gates were reopened, Palestinians entering the compound for the first time since mid-July.

The Waqf Islamic Endowment in charge of Al-Aqsa urged worshipers not to enter the mosque until it certified all security measures were removed.

Religious leaders called for all Jerusalem mosques to be closed on Friday, telling Palestinian worshipers to pray at Al-Aqsa.

In a Thursday statement, the Palestinian Authority said "removal of metal detectors, bridges, and metal barricades from the entrances of the Al-Aqsa Mosque (are) the result of the persistence and resistance of Jerusalemites and the support of Palestinians."

Triumph and joy were short-lived. On Thursday, shortly after worshipers entered the compound, Israeli-instigated clashes erupted.

Dozens were injured requiring medical care. One or more gates to the compound were closed. Israeli forces removed Palestinian flags atop Al-Aqsa, celebrating their reentry to the compound.

By evening, only women and the elderly were allowed inside. Thousands trying to get in were violently prevented. As always, Israel blamed Palestinians for its state-sponsored terror.

Extra Israeli security forces are deployed throughout the Old City, violence likely continuing on Friday.

Palestinian Minister of Religious Affairs Sheikh Yousif Adeis called on Palestinian worshipers to head to Al-Aqsa on Friday, "prov(ing) what the Jerusalemites have accomplished with their determination and popular resistance against unfair Israeli procedures."

"The accomplishment of the Palestinians, particularly the Jerusalemites, is proof that the Palestinian people have the power to take their rights and sovereignty over Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque," he added.

Not without being terrorized for protesting against occupation harshness, including for demanding their religious rights.

Since July 14, seven Palestinians were killed, over 1,000 injured, some seriously, Israel displaying "sweeping disregard" for their rights, safety and lives, treating them like "enemy soldiers," according to B'Tselem.

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