Occupied Jerusalem, April 08 (QNA) - Israeli occupation authorities continue to close Al-Aqsa Mosque compound for the 40th consecutive day, under the pretext of a “state of emergency” and security concerns.

During the closure, occupation forces impose strict military measures around the Al-Aqsa Mosque and close the gates of Jerusalem’s Old City, amid a marked escalation of tensions.

The occupation authorities are exploiting this pretext to consolidate their control over Al-Aqsa Mosque, at a time when popular and Jerusalemite calls are escalating to mobilize towards the nearest military checkpoints and barriers surrounding it, in an attempt to break the siege and force its reopening.

The so-called “Temple Mount” groups are exploiting the Jewish Passover holiday, which began on April 2 and continues until April 9, to incite the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and call for the “sacrifice of animals” within its grounds.

Official and religious authorities warn of the danger of the continued closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque, considering it a blatant violation of freedom of worship and a dangerous escalation that necessitates urgent international intervention to halt these measures. (QNA)