In pictures: Al-Aqsa clashes

(Web Desk) – The latest series of clashes between the Israeli police and the Palestinians has resulted in unrest in Jerusalem following recent Israeli security measures including the installation of metal detectors at the holy site.

The recent wave of clashes has resulted in the deaths of three Palestinians and has left over a hundred protestors injured. On Saturday United Nations slammed the killings, including that of two teenagers, while calling for an investigation into the incidents that have led to massive protests.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced the suspension of all contact with Israel till “it cancels its measures at al-Aqsa Mosque and preserves the status quo". Earlier, the Israeli measures had also barred Muslim men under the age of 50 from entering the holy site.

According to Al Jazeera, the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres deeply deplored the killings of three Palestinians. He also urged Israeli and Palestinian leaders to refrain from actions that could further escalate the volatile situation in Jerusalem s Old City, saying that religious sites should be spaces for reflection, not violence. The UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq while citing Guterres, said the organisation understands "legitimate security concerns, but on the other hand it is important that the status quo at the site be retained".

According to Israeli police, at least 3,000 officers had been deployed to the area. The Palestinian Red Crescent says that around 140 Palestinians have been injured in the recent incident.

Friday prayers at al-Aqsa were cancelled after two Israeli policemen were killed by Palestinian assailants in the Old city. Photo: Reuters

Palestinians protesting outside the Old City. Photo: Reuters

Palestinian women inside Jerusalem s Old City. Photo: Reuters

Palestinians offer prayers near a roadside block outside the Old City. Photo: Reuters

Tear gas being fired at protesters on Friday by Israeli forces outside the Old City. Photo: Reuters

Palestinians and Israeli forces clash outside the Old City. Photo: Reuters

Palestinians praying outside roadblocks by Israeli forces amid high tension in the Old City. Photo: Reuters