Israeli police clashed with Palestinians inside Al-Aqsa mosque, the third-holiest site in Islam, leading to a military exchange of rockets and air strikes, sparking global criticism and concern. The violence occurred during both the Jewish Passover and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Armed police in riot gear stormed the prayer hall of the mosque before dawn on Wednesday, aiming to dislodge “law-breaking youths and masked agitators” who had barricaded themselves inside. A barrage of rocks and fireworks met the officers, and more than 350 people were arrested. The United Nations Secretary-General was “shocked and appalled” by images he saw of Israeli security forces beating people at the mosque. Violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has intensified since the new government of veteran Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took power in December. The mosque in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem is built on top of what Jews call the Temple Mount, Judaism’s holiest site, and has been a frequent flashpoint.
