Israeli authorities plan to restrict Muslim access to al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, a move former Jerusalem (al-Quds) Grand Mufti Sheikh Ekrima Sabri condemned as a disruption of worship, according to Anadolu’s Friday report.

The appointment of a new police commander in East Jerusalem suggests an advancement of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s plans, with Haaretz noting his efforts to “fan the flames.”

Sabri condemned that harsh measures, including barring dozens of young men and maintaining West Bank checkpoint restrictions, would significantly lower the number of worshippers compared to previous years.

Since the war began on October 7, 2023, permits for West Bank residents have become increasingly difficult to obtain, and recent temporary orders have banned hundreds of East Jerusalem Palestinians from the site for up to six months.

These actions occur as Benjamin Netanyahu’s government faces criticism for altering the status quo, while police continue to allow Israeli extremists into the compound.

Sabri warned that right-wing ambitions to impose sovereignty and reduce the Islamic Waqf’s authority are now public.

Beyond the mosque, he linked these measures to racist demolition policies in East Jerusalem, urging Arab and Muslim leaders to fulfill their responsibilities toward the holy site.