The Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, warned on Tuesday of the consequences of the continued closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound for the 11th consecutive day and the prevention of worshippers from performing Taraweeh prayers and religious retreat during the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement, the movement said the closure represents a “dangerous historical precedent” since 1967 and described it as a “blatant violation” of freedom of worship and a provocative escalation against Islamic holy sites.

Hamas said the continued closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by what it called the “fascist occupation government”, and the prevention of worshippers and those guarding the site from accessing it to perform Taraweeh prayers and observe itikaf during Ramadan, was happening for the first time since 1967.