Early Tuesday morning, Palestinian youth erupted in protest against an upcoming debate regarding Israeli sovereignty of the Temple Mount. Clashes between Israeli police forces and Palestinians began when officers opened the Mughrabi Gate, a main entrance to the Temple Mount that is located next to the Western Wall and is only accessible for non-Muslims.
The group of young men hurled stones and firecrackers at police forces. Several of the rioters disguised their identities by wearing masks while engaging in violence. Police were able to disperse the riot using stun grenades.
Three young men were arrested with several injured. Two Israeli police officers suffered injuries and were treated on the scene before being transported to Shaare ZedekMedical Center in Jerusalem.
The Temple Mount remains open despite this morning’s incident.
Earlier this week, U.S. Senator Bill Johnson (R-OH) and Congressman David McKinley (R-WV) visited the Temple Mount of a fact finding mission. Led by Rabbi Chaim Richman, International Director of the Temple Institute, the congressmen were shocked by the rough treatment they received while visiting the holy site.
Muslim Waqf guards subjected the congressmen to invasive and extreme security measures, measures that are only reserved for Jews. Johnson and McKinley were also shocked by the systematic destruction of the historical and archaeological remains of the first and second Jewish Temple by the Palestinians.
“We are pleased that Senator Bill Johnson and Congressman David McKinley were given a first-hand opportunity to observe the every day reality of the discrimination of non-Muslims on the Temple Mount,” Rabbi Richman said.
“We are confident that these men of integrity and moral principle were highly affected by the travesty of justice on the Temple Mount, and they expressed their belief that the majority of the American people are fully supportive of the right of the Jewish people to pray on the Temple Mount.”
Earlier this month, Muslims rioted on the Temple Mount, stoning police officers. Seven Palestinians were arrested.
The riots are the latest in a wave of violence on the Temple Mount in recent months.
