JERUSALEM – Palestinians refusing to pass through metal detectors Israeli police had set up at the gates leading to Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest places, and insisting to pray outside the gates on Monday night, clashed with police who insisted on dispersing them.
Police set up the metal detectors on Sunday after closing the mosque for prayer for two days provoking strong Palestinian and Muslim condemnation.
Officials from the Islamic Waqf, who are in charge of the mosque, called on worshippers not to pass through the metal detectors when they go to Al-Aqsa Mosque for prayer and to hold the five daily prayers outside the compound.
Police refused to allow the worshippers to hold the night prayer in the yards outside Lions’ Gate, one of the gates leading to Al-Aqsa, and used force to disperse them.
Clashes ensued with police using rubber-coated metal bullets, stun grenades and clubs to disperse the crowds.
Palestinian Red Crescent said at least 50 people were treated from rubber bullet wounds and beating.
Clashes erupted also in the neighborhoods outside the Old City, mainly Silwan and Issawiyeh.
Israeli police said four people involved in the clashes were arrested, including one from Silwan who was apparently shot and seriously wounded. He was taken away from his hospital bed.
(WAFA)
