Eid Observances Disrupted Amid Escalating US–Israel–Iran Conflict, Al Aqsa Shut for First Time in Decade

Eid prayers were significantly impacted in multiple regions due to the ongoing hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

In a highly unusual move, the well-known Al Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem was shut to worshippers during Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan.

Reports indicate that the sacred site remained inaccessible on Friday, preventing devotees from offering prayers on one of Islam’s most important festivals.

This is believed to be the first complete shutdown of the compound since the 1967 Middle East conflict, when Israel took control of East Jerusalem and the Old City.

Situated on an elevated area revered by both Muslims and Jews, the site holds deep religious significance, with Jewish tradition identifying it as the location of ancient temples.

Restrictions on entry have long been a source of friction, often triggering unrest between Israelis and Palestinians.

During the current conflict with Iran, Israeli authorities have reportedly restricted access to religious sites across the Old City for all communities, citing security concerns.

However, the limitations have disproportionately affected Muslim worshippers, as thousands typically gather at Al Aqsa for Friday prayers.

Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported that a spokesperson for the country’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard was killed in an airstrike early Friday.

Before his death, General Ali Mohammad Naeini had asserted that Iran retained the capability to manufacture missiles despite ongoing strikes by Israel and the United States.

In another development, Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a strong message calling for adversaries to be stripped of their “security.”

The statement, conveyed through President Masoud Pezeshkian, came after Israel reportedly killed Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib.

Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly since assuming leadership following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in an Israeli strike at the onset of the war on February 28. Mojtaba, too, has been seriously injured in an attack earlier.

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