Israeli forces demolished two Palestinian homes in the Silwan neighborhood of occupied East Jerusalem, Anadolu Agency reports.

Troops, accompanied by bulldozers, raided the Al-Bustan area and Ain Street in Silwan, demolishing the houses and surrounding walls.

Israel closed Al-Aqsa after the start of its war with Iran on Feb. 28, citing security concerns, while Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and what it describes as US interests in the region.

Authorities also prevented Eid al-Fitr prayers at the site this year for the first time since Israel occupied East Jerusalem in 1967.

Despite condemnations from Arab and Muslim countries, Israeli authorities have refused to reopen the mosque. Worshippers in East Jerusalem said the closure is unjustified and politically motivated.

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