Temple Mount Groups Intensify Activity Ahead of Hanukkah Amid Al-Aqsa Incursions

Israeli incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound are continuing, coinciding with increased activity by Temple Mount groups to mobilize settlers during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. These groups are pushing to intensify the performance of Talmudic rituals within the mosque's courtyards, while Israeli forces impose strict measures to limit Palestinian access. The Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem reported that settler groups performed Talmudic rituals, including the "epic prostration," in the eastern area near the Dome of the Rock, under Israeli police protection. Israeli authorities are also tightening procedures at the mosque's gates, confiscating worshipers' IDs and barring hundreds of Palestinians from the site. Over 1,026 settlers reportedly entered the compound in the past week. The upcoming Hanukkah holiday, from December 4th to 12th, is expected to see a surge in settler incursions and ritual performances, as Temple Mount groups aim to alter the mosque's Islamic character. Historically, Hanukkah commemorates the Maccabees' victory and the rededication of the Second Temple. Statistics show a rise in settler numbers during this period, with 2,567 in 2024 and 2,779 in 2025. Sheikh Akrama Sabri, the preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque, warned that these escalating incursions and provocative rituals, sometimes involving Israeli officials, are part of a systematic effort to undermine the mosque's religious, historical, and Arab identity. He stated that Al-Aqsa is facing a dangerous phase, with recent Jewish holidays witnessing attempts to impose new realities within the compound. Sabri noted that the issue of Al-Aqsa is increasingly exploited in Israeli political and electoral disputes by far-right parties. Palestinian calls continue for increased presence and vigilance at Al-Aqsa to counter attempts to change its Islamic identity and status.