Israel Turns Jerusalem's Old City Into Military Barracks

Israeli occupation forces have systematically transformed Jerusalem's Old City into a military barracks.

“JERUSALEM, March 15, 2026 (WAFA) – Israeli occupation forces have turned the Old City of Jerusalem into a military barracks, deploying hundreds of police officers from the Wadi al-Joz area to Damascus Gate, extending down to Lions’ Gate”

WAFA Agency

The occupation authorities deployed hundreds of police officers throughout the area.

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The military presence extends from Wadi al-Joz area to Damascus Gate and down to Lions' Gate.

The historic Old City has been effectively converted into a closed military zone.

This represents a significant escalation of Israeli occupation tactics in East Jerusalem.

The measures have been implemented during the sensitive period of Ramadan.

The complete closure has disrupted normal life for Palestinian residents and worshippers.

The atmosphere created is one of siege and oppression in a sacred site.

The closure measures have severely restricted religious freedom and access to holy sites.

Al-Aqsa Mosque has remained closed for the sixteenth consecutive day.

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Israeli authorities cite security conditions related to the conflict with Iran as justification.

This marks the first time since 1967 that worshippers have been prevented from performing prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Worshippers have also been barred from observing itikaf (spiritual retreat).

The absence from the last Friday prayer of Ramadan demonstrates the extent of religious freedom violations.

These restrictions represent a direct assault on Palestinian religious rights.

The measures are part of an Israeli campaign to alter religious demographics and control of East Jerusalem.

The Jerusalem Governorate has warned about dangerous escalation in incitement rhetoric.

“JERUSALEM, March 15, 2026 (WAFA) – Israeli occupation forces have turned the Old City of Jerusalem into a military barracks, deploying hundreds of police officers from the Wadi al-Joz area to Damascus Gate, extending down to Lions’ Gate”

WAFA Agency

Extremist groups referred to as 'Temple organizations' are leading this incitement against Al-Aqsa Mosque.

These groups promote narratives justifying Israeli control and undermining Muslim character.

The closure measures are not temporary security procedures.

They represent a deliberate political and ideological trajectory.

The goal is to permanently alter the religious, historical, and legal status quo of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

This systematic campaign normalizes Israeli occupation.

The strategy aims to eliminate Palestinian presence and rights in Jerusalem's holy sites.

The measures must be understood within broader context of Israeli apartheid policies.

They represent systematic ethnic cleansing in occupied East Jerusalem.

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These are not isolated incidents but part of comprehensive consolidation strategy.

The goal is to reduce Palestinian presence and influence in Jerusalem.

Military force and closure tactics during Ramadan target Palestinian religious identity.

Such tactics undermine Palestinian community cohesion.

International failure to hold Israel accountable emboldens further escalation.

The situation represents a critical test of international commitment to Palestinian rights.