Israeli forces arrest seven Palestinians after clashes

Israeli forces arrested at least seven Palestinian demonstrators after clashes broke out between them and Israeli police in Jerusalem's Old City Wednesday.

Witnesses said Israeli forces also fired tear gas after the clashes broke out near a site considered holy to both Jews and Muslims.

The compound, known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and the Temple Mount to Jews, has been the site of many clashes in the past.

Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld told The Associated Press the skirmish erupted Wednesday when some 300 Palestinian demonstrators tried to block a group of Jewish visitors from reaching the sensitive hilltop compound revered by both Jews and Muslims. He said masked Palestinian demonstrators threw stones, prompting security forces to move in.

Rosenfeld said some demonstrators sought refuge inside the nearby al-Aqsa Mosque. He said police did not follow them in, and no one was injured.

Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that Israeli forces also prevented Muslim worshippers from visiting the site, blocking around 16 buses earlier in the day.

The confrontation took place just hours before Jews in Israel were to celebrate the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah. Rosenfeld said security at the site was increased Wendesday, as it often is around holiday times.

Al Jazeera and The Associated Press