Jerusalem: Tens of thousands pray in Al-Aqsa Mosque

Israeli police beefed up their security presence on the streets of Jerusalem as worshippers began to arrive in the early hours of the morning for prayers at the Noble Sanctuary (AlHaram Ashareef), known to Jews as the Temple Mount, which houses Al-Aqsa Mosque - Islams third holiest shrine.An age restriction has been imposed on entry into Jerusalem and the mosque - 45 and over for women and 50 and over for men. For most Palestinians residing across the West Bank, access to Jerusalem is denied due to Israeli army restrictions on their access and movement.Palestinians say the restrictions are collective punishment which has hit their economy and made travel difficult. They complain that access to holy sites, especially during the month of Ramadan, should be guaranteed by Israel. Israel has occupied Arab East Jerusalem and its old city since a 1967 annexing, in a move not recognized internationally.In the West Bank city of Hebron hundreds arrived at the Ibrahimi mosque, going through Israeli security checks before being allowed in. Hundreds were seen praying in the street near the mosque. Israel says the security restrictions are imposed to prevent attacks against the Jewish state.