### 90,000 Palestinians Gather for First Friday Prayers of Ramadan Amid Heightened Security In a significant religious event marking the beginning of Ramadan, approximately 90,000 Palestinians attended the first Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem's Old City. This gathering occurred under stringent security measures imposed by Israeli forces, reflecting the ongoing tensions in the region. The event saw many worshipers traveling from the West Bank, as Israel permitted entry for men over 55 and women over 50 to participate in the prayers during this holy month [https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-03-07/palestinians-first-friday-prayers-ramadan-jerusalem][https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/03/07/world/90000-palestinians-attend-first-friday-prayers-ramadan-jerusalem]. ### Structure of the Event and Its Context 1. **Attendance and Participation**: - Approximately 90,000 Palestinians participated in the prayers, showcasing a strong communal spirit during Ramadan [https://www.siasat.com/90000-palestinians-attend-the-first-friday-prayers-of-ramzan-in-jerusalem-3191631]. 2. **Security Measures**: - The event was heavily monitored by Israeli security forces, indicating the sensitive nature of gatherings at this religious site [https://www.eldoradonews.com/news/2025/mar/08/90000-palestinians-attend-the-first-friday]. 3. **Access Restrictions**: - Israel allowed entry to specific age groups, which facilitated the participation of older men and women, reflecting a controlled approach to managing the influx of worshipers [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/mar/7/jerusalem-90000-palestinians-attend-first-friday-prayers-ramadan]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Attendance Figures**: - **90,000** worshipers attended the prayers, a significant turnout for the first Friday of Ramadan [https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/nation-and-world/90k-palestinians-attend-the-first-friday-prayers-of-ramadan-in-jerusalem-3316831]. - **Security Context**: - The presence of Israeli forces was noted as "tight," underscoring the ongoing security concerns in the area [https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/90-000-palestinians-attend-first-friday-prayers-of-ramadan-in-jerusalem-article-12959459.html]. ### Summary of Findings **Key Takeaways**: 1. **Significant Attendance**: The gathering of **90,000** Palestinians at Al-Aqsa Mosque highlights the importance of this religious site during Ramadan. 2. **Security Concerns**: The event was conducted under strict security measures, reflecting the ongoing tensions in the region. 3. **Controlled Access**: Israel's decision to allow entry for specific age groups indicates a cautious approach to managing large gatherings. This event not only marks a religious observance but also illustrates the complex socio-political dynamics at play in Jerusalem, particularly during significant religious periods [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/entertainment/3289772-ramadan-prayers-illuminate-path-to-peace-amid-fragile-ceasefire].