Occupied Jerusalem, May 30 (QNA) – Thousands of Palestinians gathered for Friday prayers at Al Aqsa Mosque despite strict military restrictions imposed by Israeli occupation forces on access to the holy site.

The Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem estimated that around 45,000 worshippers attended the prayers at Al Aqsa.

According to Palestinian news agency WAFA, local sources reported that Israeli forces obstructed the entry of worshippers through Damascus Gate and Lions’ Gate, conducting identity checks and detaining several young men.

Some were completely barred from entering the mosque courtyards, forcing them to perform Friday prayers in the vicinity of Al Aqsa after being denied access.