(Communicated by the Israel Police Spokesperson)
In the early hours of this morning (Friday, 15 April 2022), police forces under the command of the Jerusalem District Police Commander were forced to disperse a violent riot on the Temple Mount. Hundreds of rioters participated in the clashes, during which stones were thrown and fireworks launched at police forces and towards the rear of the Western Wall.
Some of the violent rioters barricaded themselves inside the Al-Aqsa Mosque inciting to violence—including incessant stone-throwing at the police—making it impossible for Muslim worshipers to hold traditional prayers on the second Friday of Ramadan and thus mainly distressing the large Muslim public wishing to attend prayers on the Temple Mount.
This is a violent and prolonged disturbance initiated by unrestrained lawbreakers and violent rioters whose sole purpose is to cause harm to security forces, limit the freedom of worship and curb access to the holy places.
The police used riot-dispersal methods to disperse the rioters. At the same time, they initiated a dialogue, warning the rioters and giving ample opportunities for independent dispersal and cessation of the violent disturbance, with no result.
A short while ago the rioters were evicted from the Temple Mount and police arrested hundreds of suspects who barricaded themselves inside the mosque, causing severe damage, throwing thousands of stones, launching fireworks, and violently rioting for many hours.
Meanwhile, false reports have been published on social media since early morning, completely distorting the order of events on the Temple Mount. Israel Police clarify that the purpose of the entry of the forces into the Temple Mount area was to allow Muslim worshippers to safely and securely access the Temple Mount for Friday prayers, while maintaining law and order.
As a result of the violent disturbances, three policemen have so far been lightly injured by massive stone-throwing. Two of the policemen were evacuated for medical treatment.
Instigators of incitement and support of terrorism were found inside the mosque, together with a large amount of stones and fireworks and extensive damage caused by the rioters.
The Temple Mount has now been reopened to worshipers after the rioters have been dispersed or arrested.
While police officers work tirelessly to permit freedom of worship, maintaining security, law and order in the holy places and throughout the city of Jerusalem, there are those who choose to riot and deliberately disturb public order. We will continue to act resolutely against rioters and lawbreakers for the sake of public peace and security and in order to restore peace to the Temple Mount and facilitate Friday prayers in an orderly manner.