Israel Reopens Al-Aqsa Mosque and Church of Holy Sepulchre After Six Weeks
Key Takeaways
- Israel reopened Al-Aqsa Mosque and Holy Sepulchre on April 9, 2026, after nearly six weeks.
- Opening announced by Israeli authorities for worshippers starting Thursday.
- Weeks-long closure persisted prior to reopening.
Holy Sites Reopen
Israel announced the reopening of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre after closing them for nearly six weeks.
Israeli police said they were following updates from the Home Front Command.
The closure had been in place since February 28, citing prevention of gatherings as a precaution during the war.
Six-Week Closure and Controversy
The closure prevented worshippers from accessing their qiblah for the first time since 1967.
Eid al-Fitr prayers were also prevented for the first time since the occupation.
Jews were allowed to pray at the Western Wall, reflecting a double standard.
The closure sparked widespread condemnation as an unprecedented encroachment on religious rights.
Security and Sensitivities
Hundreds of police officers and border guards were deployed to secure the Old City.
“Al-Aqsa Mosque closed by decision of Israeli authorities on the pretext of preventing gatherings in light of the war on Iran (European)”
The reopening came after nearly six weeks of tightly enforced restrictions.
The Home Front Command's changing guidance reflected evolving assessments of threats.
The reopening was a constant demand from Palestinian residents and authorities.
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