A total of 383 settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque on Thursday to mark the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, under the protection of Israeli police.

An official from the Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem, who requested anonymity, told Anadolu Agency that 383 settlers entered the Al-Aqsa compound during the morning hours and after noon prayers, amid heavy police presence.

According to the official, the incursions were carried out through the Mughrabi Gate on the western wall of the mosque, in groups and under close escort and protection by Israeli police.