Israeli forces shot down a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip on Monday, the Israeli military said.
No group in Gaza claimed responsibility for the rocket launch. According to Israel, the Iron Dome system intercepted the artifact.
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This was the first such attack in months. Israelis and Palestinians are fighting over a shrine in Jerusalem.
The location is the AlAqsa Mosque. The site is also revered by Jews as there are remains of two ancient temples there.
- 152 people were injured in clashes between Palestinians and Israeli police in Jerusalem
The site has been the scene of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli riot police since Friday. At least 152 Palestinians and eight police officers were injured in Friday’s clashes in the mosque area, medics said.
Palestinians accuse Israel of invading Al Aqsa during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Israel says Palestinian protesters want to disrupt Muslim prayers for political gain and prevent visits from Jews, who are now celebrating Easter.
1 of 1 ceremony in Jerusalem on April 18, 2022 — Photo: Ronen Zvulun/Reuters
Ceremony in Jerusalem on April 18, 2022 — Photo: Ronen Zvulun/Reuters
Jordan has custody of the sanctuary
Al Aqsa is in custody with Jordan.
Jordan’s King Abdullah told UN SecretaryGeneral António Guterres that Israel’s policies in Al Aqsa seriously undermine the chances of peace with the Palestinians.
Jordan has also summoned Israel’s interim ambassador (this is a method diplomats use to criticize another country).
Jordan’s prime minister Hirer alKhasawneh further ramped up the rhetoric, telling the country’s parliament, “I must commend those who are hurling stones at the Zionists who are desecrating the AlAqsa Mosque under the protection of the Israeli occupation government.”
Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett made a video address following alKhasawneh’s testimony. “I take seriously the statements blaming Israel for the violence we are subjected to. Some encourage throwing stones. This serves as a reward for the instigators, particularly Hamas, who want to incite violence here in Jerusalem.”