Entrance to Temple Mount restricted due to fear of riots
Friday prayers at the Temple Mount will be restricted to male Muslim worshipers aged 40 and over who hold Israeli citizenship (blue ID card) and female worshipers of all ages. The decision was made by Jerusalem District Police Commander Yossi Preintie, after convening an assessment meeting with senior district officers in the wake of Operation Pillar of Defense. Police sources cited a fear of clashes between security forces and worshipers.
On Friday morning police and Border Police forces are expected to patrol the area from the early morning hours. Polices sources say any attempt to disrupt the order will be dealt with severely. (Noam 'Dabul' Dvir)
