State of Palestine: Hundreds take to the streets after IDF storm Al-Aqsa Mosque

Hundreds of Palestinians took the streets of Jerusalem after Israeli Defence Forces carried out a raid on Al-Aqsa mosque, reportedly firing rubber-coated steel bullets and tear gas, Sunday. Israeli police say that the raid was part of a security operation, which was carried out after Shin Bet allegedly received information regarding a security threat. During the raid, Israeli soldiers surrounded the Al-Aqsa compound, detaining two volunteer guards before entering the Chain Gate. Dozens of people were removed, while men below the age of 50 were banned from entering. Israeli police released a statement claiming that masked protesters inside the mosque threw stones and fireworks at soldiers. IDF soldiers were reportedly firing tear gas and stun grenades outside the mosque complex afterwards, with opponents responding with stones. The clashes erupted ahead of the Jewish New Year, which begins Sunday evening and lasts until Tuesday evening. The Al-Aqsa mosque is considered to be the third holiest place of worship for Muslims.