The clashes erupted in the Wadi al-Joz neighborhood, close to the holy site, where worshipers had gathered for Friday prayers. They were barred from entering Al-Aqsa Mosque for the 11th straight week due to Israeli restrictions, WAFA News Agency reported.

Israeli forces also targeted journalists who were covering the incident, assaulting and removing them from the area. Videos circulating online showed Israeli forces firing tear gas at worshipers who were heading to the mosque.

Only 12,000 worshipers were able to enter the Al-Aqsa Mosque, as Israeli authorities enforced strict security measures, added the report.

The occupation forces closed the mosque doors and denied entry to those who lived outside the Old City of al-Quds, whether they came from the 1948 territories or nearby neighborhoods.

Activists have continued to call for people to rally and pray at Al-Aqsa, despite Israel's attempts to colonize and change the historical and religious status of the holy site. In recent months, Israeli settlers have repeatedly entered the holy site under Israeli forces' protection.

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Al-Aqsa Mosque is a sacred place for both Muslims and Jews, but its ownership and access rights have been a source of conflict. Muslims regard the mosque as the third holiest site, after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Masjid al-Nabawi in Medina.