16 Apr 2019 | 03:25 AM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Firefighters extinguish blaze at Al-Aqsa Mosque April 15
Firefighters extinguish blaze in a portion of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem on April 15; residual disruptions in vicinity of Al-Aqsa possible in coming hours
Event
Firefighters contained a small blaze next to Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque on Monday night (local time), April 15. No significant damage was reported. The fire reportedly started around 21:30 on Monday in the Temple Mount complex, which houses Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa, on the roof of Musala Marwani, an underground prayer room located next to Al-Aqsa. Residual disruptions are possible in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa in the coming hours.
Context
The Temple Mount contains significant holy sites in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism and is a flashpoint for Israeli-Palestinian relations. Management and access to the temples and mosques has been the catalyst for unrest; a visit by Israeli politician Ariel Sharon in 2000 prompted demonstrations that eventually resulted in the Second Intifada.
Advice
Individuals in Irael and Palestinian Territories are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate disruptions in the vicinity of the Temple Mount, and avoid any large public gatherings as a precaution.
