100,000 Worshippers Perform Isha, Tarawih Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

Approximately 100,000 worshippers performed the Isha and Tarawih prayers on Friday evening at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Jerusalem, according to Palestinian officials.

The Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem said the large congregation gathered despite tightened restrictions and heightened security measures imposed by Israeli forces at the entrances to the Old City and the mosque compound.

In a statement carried by WAFA, the Waqf confirmed that tens of thousands of Palestinians filled the courtyards of the mosque for evening and Ramadan Tarawih prayers, underscoring the site’s religious significance during the holy month.

Israeli forces reportedly prevented thousands of worshippers from reaching the mosque earlier in the day, turning many back at the Qalandiya checkpoint north of Jerusalem and at the “300” checkpoint separating Jerusalem from Bethlehem.

Witnesses cited reinforced military measures across Jerusalem and around the gates of Al-Aqsa, aimed at restricting access to the compound. In recent days, more than 300 Jerusalem residents were reportedly issued temporary bans from entering the mosque during Ramadan.

Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, frequently becomes a focal point of tension during religious observances, particularly amid broader political and security strains in the region.

Despite the restrictions, Friday night’s turnout marked one of the largest gatherings at the compound this Ramadan season, reflecting continued Palestinian determination to pray at the site.