Netanyahu Visits Western Wall as Forces Detain Palestinians

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joined ministers and thousands of settlers at the Western Wall plaza in occupied East Jerusalem early Sunday. The Jerusalem Governorate reported tight security measures during this large gathering amid ongoing regional tensions and religious holidays.

The governorate stated that participants entered through Wadi Street after calls for prayers at the Gate of Mercy. Many Palestinians visited Al-Aqsa Mosque to pray and shop, aiming to counter these incursions and thwart occupation plans ahead of Yom Kippur.

Disputes persist over the site's status as Israeli authorities control it while Islamic bodies claim it as part of their holy sites. The plaza remains open continuously for ceremonies and official events, with strict security checks conducted at all entrance points for visitors.

In the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces detained at least twenty-seven Palestinians during a raid on al-Mughayyir village east of Ramallah. Soldiers closed the only entrance, ransacked homes, and stole cash and gold jewelry before holding detainees at a local residence.

This arrest campaign followed an attack by settlers and forces on Saturday. Since 2003, police have allowed settlers into the Al-Aqsa compound unilaterally. The current Jewish holiday period continues with major observances including Yom Kippur and the Feast of Tabernacles soon.