Jerusalem: Tens of thousands of Palestinians gathered to perform Friday prayers at the Al Aqsa Mosque, despite stringent military restrictions imposed by Israeli occupation forces on access to the holy site.

According to Qatar News Agency, local sources in Jerusalem reported that Israeli forces obstructed worshippers’ entry through key gates including Al Asbat Gate, Al Sahira Gate, and Al Amoud Gate by erecting iron barricades.

Troops were also deployed around the Friday market area, tightening control over residents by stopping young men and inspecting their identity cards.

Israeli authorities continue to deny thousands of Palestinians from the occupied West Bank access to Jerusalem for prayers at Al Aqsa, requiring special permits to cross the military checkpoints encircling the city.