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Israeli occupation severely limited Palestinians’ access to Al-Aqsa Mosque on Ramadan’s first Friday, imposing strict military checkpoints and allowing a far-right minister to enter the site, provoking Muslim worshippers.
The Ministry of Awqaf said occupation forces and settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque 28 times in January and blocked the call to prayer at the Ibrahimi Mosque 57 times. Worshippers faced restrictions, with ongoing construction in Ashrafiya area. The report also documented an attack on the Church of Gethsemane in Jerusalem.
Sheikh Saleh Al-Arouri, Deputy Head of Hamas’ Political Bureau, said the occupation has lost control and balance and affirmed that the current battle is for Jerusalem and the entire nation. He stated the resistance is prepared for a ground battle and that Gaza fights for Palestine and refuses to be isolated from the cause.
Arouri stated that Abu Mazen withdrew from elections after an agreement was reached, using Jerusalem as a pretext. He emphasized the possibility of holding elections in Jerusalem despite the occupation, reaffirming that resistance remains the essential path. He also noted that regional and international forces pressured to cancel elections fearing a Hamas victory.
Sheikh Saleh Al-Arouri affirmed that Jerusalem is the safety valve of the Palestinian cause and will never be compromised, urging Palestinians to defend it and Al-Aqsa Mosque. He said Hamas is proud that martyr Fadi Abu Shkheidem belonged to the movement, praising his legacy. He also called on the nation to work for Jerusalem’s liberation and urged the Authority to prioritize it in its relations.
On Hamas’ 34th anniversary, Sheikh Saleh al-Arouri highlighted 2021 as a year of resistance, steadfastness, and heroic operations, notably Fadi Abu Shkhaydem’s. He stressed national unity and internal reform, declaring prisoner freedom a top priority. Arouri honored fallen Hamas leaders and emphasized the role of the diaspora in defending Palestinian rights.
