Israeli excavations around Al-Aqsa threaten partial mosque collapse

The Jerusalem Governorate warned that ongoing excavations by Israeli authorities around Al-Aqsa Mosque and in Jerusalem’s Old City could cause parts of the mosque to collapse, the Palestinian WAFA news agency reported on Thursday.

In an interview with the news agency, the advisor to the Jerusalem Governorate, Marouf al-Rifai, “warned against the continuation of old and new Israeli excavation works under Al-Aqsa Mosque, particularly the digging of tunnels linking several colonial sites.”

“The excavations could cause the destruction of some Palestinian landmarks, such as historic homes and ancient schools, as well as affect the soil beneath Al-Aqsa Mosque, threatening the stability of its foundations,” al-Rifai was quoted as saying. “The excavations lack a scientific methodology and constitute a violation of the status quo, confirming that they are purely politically motivated.”

The advisor also said Israeli forces raided the town’s entrance and distributed demolition orders targeting workshops and factories that produce metal and furniture.

He said the move was part of a long-standing plan to build a new road, roundabout, and bridge linking the Anata junction to the Hizma checkpoint.

Al-Rifai added that Israeli authorities are seeking to remove all Palestinian-owned structures along the planned route, citing repeated demolitions under various pretexts such as lack of permits or proximity to the separation wall.

Earlier Thursday, groups of Israeli settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa compound in Jerusalem under heavy army protection.

Eyewitnesses said dozens entered the mosque compound in groups and carried out what were described as provocative tours.

In recent weeks, Israel has tightened security measures at the gates and surroundings the Al-Aqsa compound, deploying additional police and military forces to secure settlers’ incursions.