Palestinians’ Ramadan Journey Through Checkpoints

Palestinians’ Ramadan Journey offers a poignant look into the daily struggles of individuals as they navigate the challenges of celebrating Ramadan while living under occupation. The article discusses the difficulties faced by Palestinian worshippers trying to reach the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem during Laylat al-Qadr, one of the most sacred nights of Ramadan. Many face obstacles at the Qalandiya checkpoint and even those who manage to cross the checkpoint are often subjected to restrictions that limit their access to the holy site. The article also explores the conflict between Israel and Palestine over the control of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and how it affects the freedom of worship for Muslims.

Related: The Occupied Palestinian Territories

Ramadan Journey to Al-Aqsa Mosque for Palestinian Muslims

The article provides insight into the challenges faced by Palestinian Muslims who seek to access their holy site, especially during Ramadan. It highlights the discriminatory policies of the Israeli authorities, who use checkpoints and permit systems to limit the number of Palestinians visiting the site. Notably, Israeli security restrictions bar most Palestinian worshippers from legally crossing into Jerusalem, and the authorities turn away most men under 55 at checkpoints. This has forced many to resort to perilous means to get to the holy compound during the fasting month of Ramadan.

The article portrays how Israeli Soldiers force Palestinian worshippers to queue for hours, often in sweltering heat and overcrowded conditions, and experience chaos and confusion at the Qalandiya checkpoint. It is distressing to learn that many Israeli authorities turn them away even after enduring long waits. The article also notes that the Israeli authorities have eased some restrictions, allowing women and young children from the West Bank to enter Jerusalem without a permit. However, those between the ages of 45 and 55 who have a valid permit can pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

Related: Ramadan Traditions Vary Globally, But, Dates Are A Constant

Conflict over Al-Aqsa Mosque: Ramadan Tensions and Israeli-Palestinian Relations

The article provides an overview of the competing claims between Jews and Muslims over the control of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, which has been a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While Jews consider it the holiest site in Judaism, Muslims revere it as the third-holiest site in Islam. Over the years, this has led to violent clashes and tensions between Israelis and Palestinians.

The article also highlights the tension caused by the Israeli police’s raid on the compound during Ramadan. It is disturbing to learn that the raid, which Israel said was necessary to prevent further violence, led to the arrest of hundreds of Palestinian worshippers who had barricaded themselves inside the mosque with fireworks and stones. The raid sparked outrage among Muslims worldwide and prompted militants in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip to fire rockets at Israel.

Overall, the article provides a sobering account of the challenges faced by Palestinian Muslims seeking to access their holy site during Ramadan. It is clear that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has taken a toll on the freedom of worship for Muslims and has created a sense of despair and frustration among them. The article is well-researched and provides a balanced perspective on the issue. Overall, the ongoing conflict over Al-Aqsa Mosque has added yet another layer of complexity to the Palestinians’ Ramadan journey.