Calls for Jewish Rituals Near Al-Aqsa Compound Precede Netanyahu Visit

Calls have been made for Jewish groups to gather at midnight to perform "Selichot" prayers near the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, following similar Talmudic rituals and prayers held there last Thursday evening. These calls coincide with a significant Israeli security deployment around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, in anticipation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the Western Wall, located west of the compound, accompanied by several government ministers.

The Jerusalem Governorate's media office stated that these new calls are part of escalating activities by Temple Mount groups in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa. These groups are reportedly attempting to establish Jewish religious practices and observances in the area. The governorate's media also noted that the area around the "Gate of Mercy" has recently seen similar calls and events, including the rituals and prayers from the previous Thursday.

According to the Jerusalem Governorate's media, these actions are seen as a violation of the sanctity of the Islamic cemetery and the area surrounding the Gate of Mercy, as calls persist for holding rituals there. The participating groups are urged to assemble outside the outer wall of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, facing the Gate of Mercy, at midnight for "Selichot" prayers on the eve of what is known as the Day of Atonement.

This surge in activity occurs amidst the ongoing security presence and preparations for Netanyahu's visit to the Western Wall with his ministers. The developments are unfolding against a backdrop of continued movements and calls related to holding Jewish religious rituals near the Gate of Mercy, as reported by the Jerusalem Governorate's media.