Israel Tightens Security Around Hebrons Ibrahimi Mosque

Hebron’s Ibrahimi Mosque Sees Increased Restrictions

In Hebron, occupied West Bank, the Ibrahimi Mosque has been subject to intensified control measures. The mosque, a significant Islamic site and Palestinian national symbol, is located near Aref Jaber’s home in the neighborhood bearing his surname. Jaber, a 51-year-old resident, has prayed at the mosque since childhood but notes that it has undergone changes over the years.

In 1994, a massacre of Muslim worshippers by Israeli settler Baruch Goldstein resulted in the deaths of 29 Palestinians. Following the attack, Palestinians faced increased restrictions and the establishment of an illegal presence by Israeli settlers in Hebron began in 1968. The Israeli government has continued to support settlement activity.

In 1997, the Hebron Agreement was signed, dividing the city into two parts: H1, under Palestinian control, and H2, under Israeli control. However, the agreement also stipulated that the Ibrahimi Mosque would be divided between Muslims and Jewish settlers, granting them access to pray there. Since then, settlement activity has intensified in Hebron.

Settlers have established illegal outposts within the Old City and expanded their presence through the use of the Israeli army’s protection. Palestinians have been subjected to closures, restrictions, and repressive measures aimed at forcing them to leave the Old City. The southern gate of the mosque, which was previously accessible to residents of Jaber’s neighborhood, has been closed since 1994.

In recent years, Israel has tightened its grip on the mosque and its surroundings. The Israeli government claims that the restrictions are necessary for security reasons, citing the need to protect Israeli settlers whose presence in the West Bank is considered illegal under international law. However, Palestinians have reported being subjected to searches, detention, and harassment without justification.

The Israeli army has also closed barriers and gates around the mosque and surrounding neighborhoods for extended periods under security pretexts. Palestinian residents are not allowed to leave their homes, even to shop, while settlers are permitted to move freely throughout the Old City. Access to the Ibrahimi Mosque was restricted for six days in February 2023, with limited access granted on March 6.

Source: Al Jazeera