Closed to Jews Tomorrow (Thursday)- Sunday
Temple Mount Closed to Jews Due to Muslim Holiday
This closure comes amid broader debates over the status quo at the Temple Mount, where Jewish prayer is prohibited and access is tightly controlled by the Jordanian Waqf in coordination with Israeli security forces. Critics argue that such restrictions undermine Jewish sovereignty and religious rights at the site of the ancient First and Second Temples.
The Temple Mount will be closed to Jewish visitors tomorrow (Thursday) in observance of the Muslim holiday "Laylat al-Isra' wal-Mi'raj," Israeli police announced today. The site is expected to reopen to Jews on Sunday, amid ongoing frustration from Jewish advocacy groups over repeated restrictions on access to Judaism's holiest site.
Despite appeals from organizations promoting Jewish ascent to the mount, authorities proceeded with the closure, notifying the Temple Mount Administration earlier today.
"The Temple Mount Administration looks forward to the day when the mount is open year-round, at all hours, and from all gates," the administration stated in response. "We await your arrival with the blessing: 'Open your gates continually; day and night they shall not be shut.'"
The mount will reopen for Jewish visitors on Sunday, January 18, 2026 (29 Tevet 5786). Standard visiting hours for Jews remain Sunday through Thursday: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the morning, and 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM in the afternoon.