Israel, PT: Tensions remain elevated after Palestinians and Israeli security personnel clash at East Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque April 17

Event

Tensions remain considerably elevated at the Temple Mount/Al-Haram ash-Sharif compound in East Jerusalem April 17, after Israeli security forces prevented worshippers from entering the Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the aforementioned compound. Clashes broke out between Palestinians and security personnel in side streets near the Al-Aqsa Mosque. An undetermined number of civilians were injured or arrested during the clashes The violence follows significant clashes in the vicinity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque April 15 that left approximately 150 Palestinian protesters injured. Police also arrested approximately 300 people at the site.

Heightened security measures are almost certain in the vicinity of the Temple Mount/Al-Haram ash-Sharif compound in the coming days. Transport disruptions will probably affect areas of East Jerusalem around the flashpoint religious site. Further clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians are possible in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, particularly if Palestinians attempt to violate existing Israeli restrictions prohibiting Palestinian males between the ages of 12 and 50 from entering Israeli territory during Ramadan without a permit or other restrictions limiting Palestinian movement during Passover. Israeli authorities may enact further restrictions on Palestinian movement within the West Bank and East Jerusalem with little advance warning.

Advice

Avoid the Temple Mount/Al-Haram ash-Sharif area of East Jerusalem April 17 and in the coming days. Exercise caution while operating in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem before traveling. Heed the advice of local authorities. Avoid loitering near security checkpoints and main entrances to hotels, restaurants, or government buildings. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints without authorities' permission.