Mosques and shops open, almost normal Ramadan in Jerusalem
Audio 01:32
On the eve of the start of Ramadan, the mosque is getting a makeover in Jerusalem.
April 12, 2021. REUTERS - AMMAR AWAD
Text by: RFI Follow
4 min
For the second year in a row, the month of Ramadan is shaken up by the health crisis.
But Jerusalem is an exception with most of the population vaccinated against Covid-19.
The eastern part of the city, annexed by Israel, is home to Islam's third holiest site.
In this month of fasting and celebrations, Palestinians in East Jerusalem and Arab Israeli Muslims will be able to come to the mosques plaza to pray.
The shops of the old city of Jerusalem have also reopened and are waiting for their customers.
Publicity
Read more
With our correspondent in Jerusalem,
Sami Boukhelifa
In this alley in the old town, pyramids of multicolored spices and dried fruits.
Behind his stall, Hani Mermech, runs the family grocery store.
A century-old business, passed down from generation to generation.
After a difficult year, marked by repeated confinements, he hopes to relaunch his activity during the month of Ramadan.
“
We will remain open all the time.
We have been through a dark time, but with god's help this year will be more prosperous.
Let us not forget, however, that the month of Ramadan is first of all a month of prayer, trade comes after.
In addition, this year the mosques are open
.
"
"
People will be able to pray on the esplanade
"
The call to prayer resounds from the nearby Esplanade des Mosques.
On site, the administration of the holy places is completing the final preparations to receive the faithful in the best conditions.
Azzam Al Khatib is the director.
“
Social distancing remains in order and wearing a mask is compulsory.
We want to limit the number of people who pray inside mosques.
People will be able to pray on the esplanade, in the open air, and having brought their own mat.
Inside or outside, it is the same prayer, led by the same imam
.
"
Need for a permit for Palestinians in the West Bank
During Ramadan, on Friday days of great prayer, the Esplanade des Mosques usually welcomes up to 400,000 Muslim worshipers.
Mostly residents of East Jerusalem and Israeli Arabs.
Palestinians in the occupied West Bank need a permit issued by the Hebrew state to enter the city.
►
To read also: Coronavirus: a little festive Ramadan in Jerusalem
Newsletter
Receive all international news directly in your mailbox
I subscribe
Follow all the international news by downloading the RFI application
google-play-badge_FR
Israel
Religion
Islam
Society
On the same subject
Reportage
Israel is reconfiguring itself, a blow for the various religious communities
Israel
Esplanade des Mosques: Israel orders the closure of a sensitive place