Israeli Flag Raised at Al-Aqsa Mosque Amid Increase in Settlers’ Visits During Sukkot

JERUSALEM: More than 5,900 settlers visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the Sukkot holiday, culminating in the raising of the Israeli flag by Tom Nissany, leader of the "Temple Mount in Our Hands" organization. The incident has sparked tensions in the region as settlers continue to assert their presence at the holy site. According to Maan News Agency, Tom Nissany raised the Israeli flag at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on Wednesday, delivering a speech that emphasized the importance of the site and expressed confidence in the Israeli people's ability to "win the war and return the kidnapped." Nissany highlighted the significance of the period encompassing the Feast of Tabernacles and Simchat Torah, calling for increased visits to the holy site. On the final day of the Sukkot holiday, 935 settlers entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque and conducted prayers during their visit. Throughout the week-long holiday, more than 5,900 extremists reportedly visited the mosque, where they also performed plant sacrifices and displayed the Israe li flag. The events at Al-Aqsa have raised concerns among various groups, as the site holds religious significance for both Muslims and Jews, often leading to heightened tensions when contested activities occur. The actions of the settlers, particularly the raising of the Israeli flag, have added to the complex dynamics surrounding the site.