Tensions grow after new security measures at al-Aqsa Mosque
POLITICS
By Chen Xuanlan

2017-07-20 15:37 GMT+8

Violence between Palestinian worshippers and Israeli police erupted in Jerusalem on Wednesday, as Palestinians observed a "Day of Rage" in response to Israel beefing up security measures and screening people entering the al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third-holiest site, in Jerusalem.

According to CGTN's Stephanie Freid, mass prayers held outside the mosque are a form of protest against the new measures taken by Israel, which Palestinian leaders have said prove Israel's attempt to extend control over the mosque compound.

Metal detectors were installed after two Israeli police officers were shot dead nearby last Friday. The attackers reportedly came from inside the mosque compound prior to the attack and fled back to it afterwards. 

Tensions have remained high in Jerusalem since, with seemingly unprovoked violence erupting between protesters and soldiers who have been carrying arrests and throwing stun grenades at Palestinians.

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