Israel Court Allows More Worshippers at Holy Site

Israel’s Supreme Court on Sunday approved an increase in the number of worshippers allowed at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, raising the limit from 50 to 100.

The decision followed a petition by a non-governmental organisation, with the court ruling that “the number of worshippers permitted on the Western Wall plaza will be increased to 100 people, instead of the previous limit of 50,” effective immediately.

The judges also directed the government to provide justification by April 7 for its broader “protection policy regarding holy sites”.

Since the outbreak of US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, security has been heightened in Jerusalem’s Old City, an area home to religious landmarks sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims.

Israel Court Allows More Worshippers at Holy Site Credit: Reuters

Authorities had earlier restricted access to major holy sites, including the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, citing security concerns.

Under wartime measures, gatherings of more than 50 people had been prohibited across Israel, as the country continues to face missile and rocket attacks from Iran and Hezbollah.

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