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Israeli authorities closed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on al-Quds Day (Jerusalem Day) in March 2026, forcing Muslim worshippers to pray in surrounding streets during the final ten days of Ramadan. The closure occurred amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with Israeli officials citing security concerns. Al-Aqsa is Islam’s third holiest site and typically draws tens of thousands of worshippers during Ramadan’s final nights for prayers and spiritual retreat.

Eight Muslim-majority countries, including the UAE, condemned the closure, with the Al-Quds International Foundation calling it “premeditated aggression and an act of war.” The timing is particularly significant as al-Quds Day traditionally sees increased Palestinian solidarity demonstrations globally, and the closure prevents access during one of Islam’s most sacred periods. Such closures of Al-Aqsa have historically sparked regional tensions, as the compound remains a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and holds deep religious significance for Muslims worldwide.

Sources:

• Worshippers pray outside Al-Aqsa amid closure on al-Quds Day | US-Israel war on Iran | Al Jazeera
• Palestinians Urged to Pray at Al-Aqsa Gates Amid Ongoing Closure - PLF Pakistan
• Muslim worshippers pray outside the Old city of Jerusalem, as access to Al-Aqsa compound, remains restricted by Israel, in Jerusalem | Reuters Connect
• Quds Int’l: Closing Aqsa Premeditated Aggression, Act of War Cannot Be Ignored

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