Israel Police to Deploy in Force Around Temple Mount for Ramadan 2026

Israeli police will deploy thousands of officers day and night around the Temple Mount and Jerusalem’s Old City for Ramadan, starting Wednesday evening. Authorities recommended 10,000 West Bank permits, likely restricted to men over 55 and women over 50. Meanwhile, the IDF launched a West Bank operation against social media incitement. Palestinian officials criticized restrictions on the Waqf, which was reportedly barred from installing shade and medical clinics.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 17, 2026, 3:54 AM EST

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel.

Massive Security Deployment

Israeli police announced a large scale security operation for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to begin this Wednesday evening. Senior Jerusalem police officer Arad Braverman confirmed that thousands of officers will be stationed around the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and the surrounding Old City. The deployment is intended to manage the hundreds of thousands of worshippers expected to attend, with a specific focus on Friday prayers when crowds are at their peak.

Permit Restrictions and Waqf Tension

The Israeli government is currently deciding on the final number of entry permits for West Bank Palestinians. While police recommended 10,000 permits, the Palestinian Jerusalem Governorate reported that restrictions will likely mirror last year’s criteria, limiting access to men over 55 and women over 50. Additionally, the Islamic Waqf, which administers the site, has reportedly been blocked from routine preparations. This includes the installation of shade structures and the setup of temporary medical clinics, leading to accusations of unnecessary obstruction by Palestinian officials.

IDF Operation Against Incitement

In a parallel move to ensure "security and stability," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a West Bank operation targeting Palestinians allegedly using social media to advance incitement and terror. Lt. Col. Ella Waweya stated the operation is a preemptive step to prevent terror organizations from disrupting the holiday. Authorities emphasized that while they aim to allow freedom of worship, they will act decisively against any elements attempting to use the religious period to spark violence.