After installing metal detectors and cameras at the gates of the al-Aqsa Mosque, Israeli forces have also built a concrete watchtower at the Damascus Gate
Israel, in its most recent violation in the Old City of Jerusalem, has installed an iron watchtower at the entrance of the Damascus Gate of the al-Aqsa Mosque under the pretext of providing “security” and to prevent alleged stabbings attacks, infuriating Palestinian residents.
The watchtower is one of the three checkpoints Tel Aviv plans to construct, and will have two sections and be covered with reinforced glass. Israeli forces plan to monitor passages to al-Aqsa Mosque and conduct identity-checks at this particular tower.
Israel had previously installed two metal detectors at entry points to al-Aqsa Mosque, which were later removed after several protests and condemnations.
Israel’s presence in the Old City is internationally deemed illegal and viewed as an occupation. Eastern Jerusalem was occupied by Israel in 1967, although this annexation has never been recognized internationally. A UN vote in Dec. 2016 declared that Palestinian territories were under hostile occupation.
Palestinians were angered and vowed to hold demonstrations against the installation of the checkpoints where the concrete tower was erected on Wednesday night.
Palestinians said that the watchtower would damage the historical structure of Jerusalem and “modify its Arabic and Muslim characteristics.”
Sacred to Muslims, Jews, and Christians, Jerusalem is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which for Muslims represents the world's third holiest site.
