Israeli armed forces stormed into Al Aqsa Mosque the third holiest site in the Muslim world last Friday, having first locked the compound gates with chains. A number of worshippers were corralled in the Noble Sanctuary's courtyards and inside the Marwan prayer area. Clashes between the occupation forces and worshippers took place across Al-Aqsa compound and in the markets of the Old City of Jerusalem.

Firing tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades, the Israeli forces also used batons to attack worshippers men, women, children and the elderly. Worshippers were prevented from leaving the area while the attack was taking place.

When news of the clashes at the Noble Sanctuary reached the Old City, confrontations between Palestinians and the Israeli forces took place in local streets and markets.

Medical sources in Occupied Jerusalem said that between 30 and 50 people were treated for injuries sustained during the clashes; the injured included women and children. First aid teams worked inside the mosque while the occupation forces prevented ambulances from entering the Noble Sanctuary compound. According to the Israelis, 3 soldiers were injured during the operation.