The Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism has strongly condemned the presence of thousands of Israeli settlers at the Western Wall plaza in occupied East Jerusalem. They performed Jewish rituals ahead of Yom Kippur, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, in attendance. This move has been met with widespread criticism, with many expressing concerns over the escalating tensions in the region.
According to data from the Israeli Temple Mount movement Beyadenu, a record 68,944 Jews entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound between September 2025 and September 2026. This marks a significant increase from the previous annual record of 68,429 visits. The site was closed to Jewish visitors for 134 days due to Shabbat, Muslim holidays, and security closures. The surge in visits has raised concerns about the growing Jewish connection to Al-Aqsa.
The Al-Azhar Observatory stated that the significance of these figures extends beyond the increase in numbers. The organization views this as an attempt to promote a growing Jewish connection to Al-Aqsa as a site for the establishment of a proposed Jewish Temple. This is reflected in efforts to increase the frequency and duration of Jewish presence at the compound, as well as broaden participation.
Netanyahu and his wife visited tunnels beneath the Old City near the Western Wall on Saturday, prior to joining Jewish Selichot prayers at the Western Wall ahead of Yom Kippur. Israeli media reported that thousands of settlers gathered at the Western Wall plaza under heavy security. The events have sparked concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.
The Al-Azhar Observatory's condemnation of the settler rituals at Al-Aqsa comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Egypt has previously warned that Israeli incursions into Al-Aqsa could fuel regional escalation. The Egyptian government has strongly condemned Israeli settlers' storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque, viewing it as a flagrant violation.
The record number of Jewish visits to Al-Aqsa has raised concerns about the potential for a division of the site and the imposition of a different religious character on it. The Al-Azhar Observatory has emphasized the need to protect the Islamic identity of the site. The organization has called for restraint and de-escalation in the region.
The situation at Al-Aqsa remains a sensitive issue, with various parties closely monitoring developments. The international community is urged to take steps to reduce tensions and promote understanding. Egypt continues to push for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Key points
- Al-Azhar Observatory condemns Israeli settler rituals at Al-Aqsa
- Record Jewish visits to Al-Aqsa Mosque compound spark concerns
- Egypt warns of regional escalation over Israeli incursions into Al-Aqsa
