Hamas releases statement urging Palestinians to protest Al-Aqsa restrictions

Hamas called on people in the occupied Palestinian territories to travel to Al-Aqsa Mosque during the month of Ramadan. 

The statement, released to mark the first day of the holy month for Muslims, urged Palestinians to "mobilise all efforts this month by travelling to Al-Aqsa Mosque, remaining steadfast and engaging in seclusion there".

“We call on our people, wherever they are around the world, to take active action during the month of Ramadan in the broadest initiatives and solidarity activities with their people in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem,” Hamas said.

“Let the blessed days and nights of Ramadan be dedicated to worship, steadfastness and resistance against the enemy and settler mobs, as well as to the defence of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa until they are liberated from occupation.”

The group's intervention comes in preparation for potential measures Israel plans to enforce to limit the ability for Palestinians to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem.