MOSCOW (Sputnik) — Clashes between Palestinians and Israeli police erupted early Sunday at al-Aqsa mosque in East Jerusalem’s Temple Mount complex, Israeli police said.
Israeli forces prevented journalists from coverage what happen in #Alaqsa mosque now. #AlaqsaUnderAttack pic.twitter.com/yyQ7L8Cio4
— Said Shoaib | Gaza (@saidshouib) 13 сентября 2015
Police were conducting a late night security operation, searching for hidden explosives in East Jerusalem, the Jerusalem Post reported Sunday. They pursued several young Arab suspects who fled to al-Aqsa mosque and barricaded inside.
#AlAqsa Mosque, today morning! pic.twitter.com/oLkHL9O8Fr
— #ICC4Israel (@Pray4Pal) 13 сентября 2015
Israeli law enforcers stormed the holy site on Sunday morning. Masked Arab suspects responded by hurling rocks at the police, the Israeli outlet cited police as saying. They were later arrested, and tourists were allowed into the mosque.
Following the standoff, police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said police presence had been reinforced at the site to prevent rioting.
Police units on Temple Mount area early morning to prevent riots by Arabs. No injuries. Regular visits continuing. pic.twitter.com/JVgSrDOXz3
— Micky Rosenfeld (@MickyRosenfeld) 13 сентября 2015
The operation was carried out just hours ahead of the start of the Jewish New Year.