Occupied Jerusalem erupted in joy as the Al-Aqsa Mosque welcomed worshippers once again forty days after its closure by Israeli authorities.
Nearly 3,000 Palestinians performed the early morning dawn prayer returning to one of Islam’s most sacred sites after more than a month of restricted access.
The Jerusalem Governorate reported that despite strict security measures including identity checks, denial of entry for several young men, and attempts to remove others from the mosque’s courtyards faithful worshippers persisted in their devotion.
Among those affected, female activist Munta Amara was detained at one of the mosque’s gates, shortly after another young man was held within the compound. Multiple young men were reportedly assaulted by occupation forces during simultaneous raids by settlers.
Al-Aqsa Mosque, closed by Israel under the pretext of war, has been reopened for worship after 41 days
🔹 Thousands of Palestinians flocked to Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem for the morning prayer pic.twitter.com/qejudHMvWS— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) April 9, 2026
Access was granted early in the morning, allowing large congregations of Muslims to gather, pray, and experience the spiritual significance of the mosque once more. Officials also confirmed that other sacred sites throughout the city have reopened, offering renewed opportunities for worship and reflection.
The reopening marks an emotional and symbolic moment, representing resilience, faith, and the enduring importance of safeguarding religious traditions even amid regional tensions.
