Temple Mount Closed After Violence Flares

Image by getty images
The Temple Mount was closed to visitors after Muslim worshippers threw stones and firebombs at police offers guarding the Mughrabi gate near the Western Wall Plaza.
Two Israeli police officers were injured in the Sunday morning riot, which began when the site, which is holy to both Muslims and Jews, was opened to visitors.
Police entered the Al-Aksa Mosque compound and used stun grenades and rubber bullets to break up the rioters, according to reports.
Extra police units were posted on the Temple Mount to prevent further disturbances. Police were set to hold a security assessment later on Sunday to determine if the Temple Mount can be reopened to visitors.
The site is overseen by the Muslim Wakf, the Muslim religious administration charged with managing the Temple Mount site. Jews generally are not permitted by the Wakf to pray or bring any ritual objects to the Temple Mount when they visit.
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
