Zionist regime forces clash with Palestinians heading to al-Aqsa Mosque for Eid al-Fitr prayers

Israeli forces have clashed with the Palestinians who were heading to the al-Aqsa Mosque compound to perform Eid al-Fitr prayers.

According to reports the confrontation erupted on Sunday after Israeli troops stepped up their presence at the courtyards of the al-Aqsa Mosque and prevented the entry of Palestinian worshipers to the holy site by installing large barriers.

The regime forces also attacked Palestinians at Bab al-Asbat (Lions Gate) of the Old City of al-Quds.

This year, only officials from the Islamic Waqf (Endowment) organization managed to perform the Eid prayers at the al-Aqsa Mosque.

Each year, tens of thousands of Palestinians pray at the al-Aqsa Mosque on Eid al-Fitr, but the compound has remained closed this year over the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Additionally, Israeli officials opposed the holding of the Eid prayers at the site even under strict health safeguards.

Reports said the Palestinians prayed outside the closed gates leading to the al-Aqsa Mosque while Israeli police, some in riot gear, guarded the entrances to the compound.