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Israel bans visits of Jews to Temple Mount in last 10 days of Ramadan

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision rejected the request of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
Palestinians stand inside the Al-Aqsa mosque as Israeli security forces watch at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, also known as the Temple Mount complex to Jews, in Jerusalem on April 9, 2023, during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan, also coinciding with the Jewish Passover holiday. (Photo by AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP) (Photo by AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP via Getty Images)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided on Tuesday to ban Jews from visiting the Temple Mount until the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan as a way to contain the ongoing escalation at Al-Aqsa mosque following last week's clashes.

Beginning on Wednesday, Jews will be prevented from ascending the Temple Mount for the last 10 days of Ramadan, considered the most holy month in Islam. During this period, Muslim worshipers traditionally spend the night at the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

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