Cairo - Mena
The Security Cabinet voted to remove metal detectors and cameras from al Aqsa Mosque, Israel's Ynet reported on Tuesday.
The Security Cabinet decided Monday night to remove metal detectors from the entrance to the Aqsa Mosque and replace them with other advanced inspection technologies, according to "the recommendation of all security bodies," read a statement from the Prime Minister's Office.
The process of removing the metal detectors from the sensitive site began overnight. The timetable for the planned installation of the new "smart" inspection equipment is expected to be six months and has been allocated a budget of NIS 100 million.
According to the plan, until the new equipment has been installed, police presence in the area will be significantly increased in order to secure the area.
Before the meeting, one of the possible solutions to the replacement of the metal detectors was the installation of sophisticated, high-resolution cameras that include thermal systems and can detect concealed weapons or explosives as well as advanced facial recognition systems.
The decision to remove the metal detectors and cameras comes after a period of heightened tensions following a terrorist attack at the Aqsa Mosque in which two police officers were murdered. The decision to erect the metal detectors was met with rioting and clashes from Arabs and Muslims in Israel and abroad.
Source: Mena