Occupied Jerusalem, May 01 (QNA) - Officials in Occupied Jerusalem have warned of what they describe as a "serious and systematic escalation" at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, citing increased activity by settler groups in recent weeks.

In a statement, the Jerusalem Governorate said attempts were being made to impose new realities in the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, including efforts to bring in what it referred to as "animal sacrifices" and an increase in incursions during religious and political occasions.

The statement said there had been eight documented attempts since the start of the year to bring sacrificial animals to the mosque or its surroundings during the Passover period. It described this as the highest number recorded since 1967. In three cases, individuals were able to reach entrances near the site before being stopped, it added.

The authority also warned of two upcoming dates in May which it said could see further escalation. These include May 15, marking "Jerusalem Day", commemorating Israel's capture of East Jerusalem in 1967, and May 22, coinciding with the Jewish festival of Shavuot ( the Feast of Weeks).

It said such occasions are often accompanied by increased visits to the site and attempts to bring in ritual items, including plant and animal offerings. (QNA)