Israel: People avoid entering Temple Mount despite removal of detectors

Jerusalem: Despite Israel removing metal detectors from holy Temple Mount compound, Muslim worshippers on Tuesday evening refused to enter, thus continuing their boycott.

The worshippers prayed at the entrance of the Al-Aqsa mosque compound without entering, in keeping with the Waqf religious trust's instructions earlier in the day, reports the Haaretz.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas supported the Waqf's position and expressed his unwavering support for Palestinians in Jerusalem.

The Israeli decision to remove metal detectors came after a week of violent protests and international pressure. Instead of metal detectors, Israel plans to install unspecified advanced technologies and "smart inspection."

The detectors were installed following the deadly attack at the site, known to Jews as the Temple Mount and to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary. The compound houses the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. Palestinians protested the move as a change to the longstanding status quo.