Israeli forces enter Al-Aqsa Mosque compound

Israeli security forces have entered Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Jerusalem amid fresh clashes in the area. Witnesses told Al Jazeera that Sunday's confrontation between Israeli forces and Palestinians began after officers entered the compound. Al Jazeera's Imtiaz Tyab, reporting from Jerusalem, said police forces used stun grenades and rubber-coated steel bullets against the Palestinians. "These confrontations at the Al-Aqsa Mosque come at a very tense time. Over the past several days, there have been frequent confrontations between Israeli security forces and Palestinian worshippers, who go to the site," he said. Al-Aqsa is Islam's third holiest site next Mecca and Medina. In a statement to Al Jazeera, Asi Aharoni, Jerusalem police spokesperson, confirmed the report of the clashes. Efforts by Israeli police to allow Jewish activists to tour the courtyards of the mosque have stirred strong reactions from Palestinians who fear Israel may change the rules for visiting the compound.