Security forces are bracing for expected further escalation on the Temple Mount, with the IDF, Israel Police, and the Shin Bet security agency on high alert ahead of the last Friday of Ramadan this week, when the annual anti-Israel Quds Day – the final Friday in the Holy Month of Ramadan, which has traditionally marked by many in the Muslim world (especially pro-Iranian elements and terrorist organizations) with anti-Israel demonstrations.
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On Wednesday, Palestinian terror organizations called for a mass pilgrimage to the site and Hamas warned Israel against "any act of folly in Al-Aqsa Mosque toward the worshipers and our people in occupied Jerusalem."
Thousands of police officers will be deployed in and around Jerusalem out of fear riots on the Temple Mount might lead to a regional escalation. Officers have been instructed to increase vigilance and respond decisively to any attempts to disrupt peace.
Forces will also be stationed on the outskirts of Jerusalem as well as in Judea and Samaria and the mixed city of Lod.
One police official said there was worry Hamas might cast tension over the Temple Mount as a victory. "We will do everything to protect the freedom of worship, but we will not allow hostile activity on the mountain," he said.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered to temporarily cease the ascent of Jewish worshippers to the site. The move was largely supported by the security echelon, except for National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who harshly criticized the move.
"When terror strikes us, we must strike back with tremendous force, and not surrender," he said.
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