Israel changes Temple Mount security; protests continue

Israel’s security Cabinet announced early Tuesday it would remove the metal detectors at the entrance to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem after a crisis erupted earlier this month over the site’s security measures. The Cabinet said it would use “sophisticated technology” in place of the detectors but gave no further information on when the measures would go into effect. Israel erected the metal detectors earlier this month after gunmen attacked and killed two policemen inside the site, which is also revered by Muslims. Israel controls the site but allows Muslims to administer it. Jews may visit but are not allowed to pray inside the area. Muslims said Israel was trying to increase its control over the site by installing the metal detectors. Muslim clerics on Tuesday urged their followers to continue with mass protests, and dozens of Muslim worshippers held their noon prayers on Tuesday outside the shrine. Mohammed Hussein, the top Muslim cleric in Jerusalem, said they need more time to study Israel’s proposed measures before they can resume praying in the compound.