Tension in Jerusalem as Ramadan Fast Begins

There are renewed fears of violence spreading, particularly to Jerusalem, during the Islamic Holy Month of Ramadan, as a truce remains elusive.

Hamas has reiterated a call for Palestinians to step up visits to al-Aqsa Mosque.

The far-right Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, did call for tight restrictions on Muslim Israeli citizens’ access to al-Aqsa, saying this was to stop Hamas celebrating victory while Israeli hostages remained captive in Gaza.

However, the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has now rejected the plan.

It is not yet clear how many people will be allowed to reach the site.

On Sunday, Israel said worshippers would be permitted entrance to temple mount in similar numbers to previous years.

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It said this month and every month it would allow safe and proper prayers, urging people not to listen to false rumors.

But a growing movement of ultra-Orthodox and ultra-nationalist Jews have been going to the compound to pray, accompanied by Israeli police.

A small but increasingly vocal group talks about building the third temple where the Dome of the Rock currently stands.

Daniel Seidemann, an Israeli attorney and expert on Jerusalem, said the role of Israeli police has changed from what it was 10 years ago, when they were largely seen as a moderating influence.

The police were something of a referee between all sides, and their goal was to maintain order. They are now in league with the Temple Mount movement, Seidemann said.

On a daily basis Israel violates the status quo by any interpretation.