As Palestinians advocate for increased access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound amid heightened Israeli military presence, the historical importance of its smaller mosques is often overlooked. The Bab Al-Rahma Mosque, or ‘Gate of Mercy Mosque,’ located on the eastern wall, originally served as a trade gate before being sealed in 1187 AD by Salah Al-Din, who sought to bolster security and direct commerce through the main entrance after recapturing Jerusalem from the Crusaders. This mosque exemplifies the rich historical and cultural significance of the Al-Aqsa compound in the Muslim world.
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