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Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
World
Inside Story

Why is al-Aqsa mosque compound a recurrent flash point?

Why is al-Aqsa mosque compound a recurrent flash point?

Al-Aqsa mosque compound in east Jerusalem is one of the most sacred sites in Islam.

The compound is also claimed by Jews.

It has been central to years of political conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians.

On Sunday, hundreds of Jewish settlers and far right activists entered al-Aqsa mosque compound under the protection of Israeli forces.

They were there for a day of mourning to commemorate the destruction of two ancient Jewish temples.

But 15 Palestinians were injured after fighting began over Jewish settlers trying to pray at the site, something they are not allowed to do.

Many Palestinians have spoken out against what they say is Israel's attempt to undermine Muslim control of the scared site and allowing violence to escalate there.

Why is there so much tension around the sacred site?

Presenter: Sami Zeidan

Guests:

Azzam Tamimi - academic and political activist

Robbie Sabel - professor of international law at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Rodney Dixon - international human rights lawyer

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