Jerusalem's Old City was the scene of scuffles between Muslim worshippers and police on Wednesday (September 4), the eve of the Jewish New Year.

Tensions rose outside the sacred site revered by Jews as Temple Mount and by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary.

Muslim worshippers were hoping to enter the area but were prevented by police as Christian and Jewish visitors were escorted to the site.

Aware of the volatile mix of politics and religion, Israel has largely stymied such prayers at the site by having its police prevent Jewish worship on grounds it could cause a public disturbance. Israeli police accompany most visitors to the compound, in co-ordination with Muslim religious officials.

Muslim worshippers were allowed to enter the compound after 1030 a.m. local time (0730 gmt) on Wednesday.

Police arrested five people for stone-throwing and heightened security particularly at religious sites ahead of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

Presented by Adam Justice

Read more: https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/jerusalem-al-aqsa-mosque-rosh-hashanah-jews-503676