Worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on June 23rd, 2017 (Photo: EPA/VNA) |
The same day, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected demands by Jordan, saying that: "Instead of denouncing the terror attack, Jordan chose to attack Israel. It is appropriate that all parties involved, including Jordan, maintain restraint and refrain from flaming the atmosphere." Netanyahu did indicate that the area would be "gradually reopened" to worshippers Sunday.
Three gunmen opened fire at police near Jerusalem's holiest site on Friday, and then ran to the Al-Aqsa mosque before being killed by security forces. The two attacked policemen were dead. The attack was the most serious incident in years in Jerusalem, which threatens to raise tensions between Israel and Palestine.