Jerusalem authorities warn of escalating land seizures and Al-Aqsa restrictions

Jerusalem authorities and religious bodies have warned of escalating Israeli measures in East Jerusalem, including land confiscation, restrictions at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and pressure on the education sector.

Israeli authorities have confiscated approximately 370 dunams of land in Al-Eizariya, Abu Dis, and Al-Sawahira, designating them as “state land.” This move is reportedly linked to the expansion of the Ma'ale Adumim settlement and the E1 planning scheme, which critics say aims to isolate East Jerusalem from the West Bank. Additionally, over 112 Bedouin families face potential displacement.

Regarding the Al-Aqsa Mosque, officials report a surge in expulsion orders against Palestinians. Since the beginning of September, 15 expulsion orders have been issued, contributing to a total of 800 documented orders this year. This coincides with an increase in settler incursions, with over 40,000 settlers recorded entering the mosque premises between January and August. There are growing concerns regarding religious rituals being introduced by extremist groups ahead of Jewish holidays.

In the education sector, Israeli authorities are attempting to implement Israeli curricula in East Jerusalem schools, affecting approximately 45,000 Palestinian students. In protest, some schools have suspended classes and refused to adopt the new curricula, citing threats to Palestinian national identity.