For Tarawih Prayers at Al-Aqsa, 50,000 Palestinians Break Through Israeli Barricades
Felixnews.com – Under tight military surveillance, approximately 50,000 Palestinian worshippers crowded the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem’s Old City to perform Isha and Tarawih prayers on Sunday evening (February 22, 2026). This momentum marked the solemnity of worship amidst escalating tensions engulfing the occupied territories.
The Jerusalem Provincial Government reported that the flow of worshippers continued despite having to pass through multiple Israeli military checkpoints. Strict identity checks were carried out at every entrance to one of Islam’s holiest sites.
This year’s Ramadan prayers are taking place under a tense atmosphere. Palestinians in the West Bank face not only strict security procedures but also the threat of attacks from settlers and regular raids by Israeli soldiers.
Wafa news agency reported that Israeli authorities have issued an order banning entry to the Al-Aqsa Mosque for more than 300 Jerusalemites during the holy month.
To control the crowds, Israeli forces have increased the presence of military personnel and imposed strict age restrictions on worshippers. Access to Al-Aqsa Mosque is restricted to:
- Children: Under 12 years old.
- Men: Over 55 years old.
- Women: Over 50 years old.
Since the beginning of Ramadan on Wednesday (February 18, 2026), thousands of Palestinians have been seen queuing at various major checkpoints, including Qalandiya and Bethlehem. They have been waiting for hours in the hope of praying at the first direction of Islam’s Qibla.
Despite the restrictions, the enthusiasm of the congregation has not diminished. One of the worshippers who managed to enter expressed his gratitude despite the grueling process.
“The lines were incredibly long, and the identity checks were nerve-wracking. But what can I do? This is a call to pray Tarawih at Al-Aqsa,” said one worshipper who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons.
To date, the situation in the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound is reported to remain under control but highly volatile, with a military presence remaining on standby in every corner of the Old City.
Al-Aqsa Mosque, Ramadan in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa Tarawih Prayers, Al-Aqsa Access Restrictions, Ramadan 2026