The incursion took place despite the status quo governing the holy site since 1967, under which non-Muslims may visit the Al-Aqsa compound but are not permitted to perform prayers there.

The Israeli regime has repeatedly faced criticism over settler incursions into the compound, where Palestinian authorities regard such actions as violations of the established arrangements governing access and worship.

Meanwhile, radical settler groups have called on their supporters to participate en masse in incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque under the pretext of celebrating the Jewish New Year.

According to Wafa, the Israeli authorities also use Jewish holidays as a pretext to close roads and impose severe restrictions on the movement of Palestinians across the occupied West Bank, including al-Quds.

The restrictions further affect Palestinians’ access and movement during periods when settler groups organize mass incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.