Kashmir: Authorities close major mosque to prevent pro-Palestine protests

In anticipation of potential protests related to the Israel-Palestine war, authorities closed Kashmir's Jamia Masjid on Friday. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, recently released from house arrest after four years, was restricted from leaving his residence to deliver the sermon. Global

pro-Palestine solidarity activities were staged on the first Friday after the recent escalation began on October 7. Jamia Masjid, a central point in Srinagar's politics, had been shut down for weeks after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. A significant portion of Kashmir's population has expressed sympathy for the Palestinian cause, following a statement by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, led by Mirwaiz, expressing sorrow over the loss of lives in the recent

Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Anti-Israel protests were reported in Badgam district, while Kargil district in Ladakh witnessed demonstrations after Friday prayers.