In Pictures: Day of violent clashes over Jerusalem's Temple Mount
Violent protests erupted on Friday as tensions reached new heights over security measures placed at Temple Mount. Three protesters died during the confrontations.
By HAGAY HACOHEN
Thousands of Israeli police officers and five IDF battalions contained fierce Friday protests by Palestinians who rejected the new security measures placed on Temple Mount after a deadly terrorist attack that killed two Israeli police officers.Protesters clashed with security forces in Jerusalem and throughout the West Bank.Despite calls for a Muslim 'day of rage,' Israeli security forces were able to maintain public order.Protests in Jordan, Turkey, and Malaysia called on the Jewish state to remove the metal detectors and security cameras that now monitor those who wish to enter al-Aksa to pray. The Israeli government is adamant that no changes to the status quo had been made and supported the view of the Israeli police that the security measures were vital.The Wakf, the Muslim body which controls al-Aksa, discouraged worshipers from entering the mosque since the security changes were made. Few visitors decided to pray there on Friday, the majority of Palestinians chose to stay outside the site and pray in the street in an ongoing protest.