An estimated 70,000 worshippers attended Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, converging on the site despite stringent restrictions imposed across the city. The turnout marked one of the largest congregations in recent weeks, reflecting sustained public attachment to the sanctuary under increasingly difficult conditions.

Throughout Jerusalem, Israeli forces were heavily deployed at key entry points to the Old City and surrounding neighbourhoods. Metal barriers were installed and many worshippers were stopped, subjected to identity checks, and delayed before being allowed to proceed towards the mosque compound. These measures significantly slowed access, yet did not prevent large numbers from reaching the site.

In the second sermon, the preacher urged continued dedication to visiting and maintaining presence at Al-Aqsa, describing it as a central element of spiritual life, history, and identity. He also reflected on the recent passing of a long-serving mosque figure who had spent decades delivering the call to prayer from its minarets through periods of both relative calm and intensified genocidal war conditions, calling for mercy upon him and all those who have died among the Muslim community.

The remarks underscored the enduring symbolic and religious significance of Al-Aqsa, which continues to serve as a focal point for collective worship despite mounting pressures on access and movement in the city.