Thousands of protestors have taken to the streets in Istanbul to protest against Israeli security forces' recent attacks on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem (al-Quds).

The demonstrators marched toward the heavily guarded Israeli consulate and burned an Israeli flag. They shouted slogans like "We will protect Al-Aqsa Mosque", "Close the Zionist embassy" and "Greetings to Hamas, continue to resist" during the anti-Israeli rally.

Israeli security forces attacked the Al-Aqsa Mosque on Sunday morning, firing rubber-coated bullets and tear gas canisters.

The clashes erupted earlier Sunday when Israeli troops using stun grenades, tear gas, and rubber bullets broke into the courtyard of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, beating Palestinian worshippers with the butts of guns and clubs.

At least 30 Palestinians were wounded and up to 20 others arrested during the fierce confrontations between Palestinian activists using stones, shoes, and bare fists and armed Israeli troops in and around the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry released a statement in which it expressed deep concern over the tension around Al-Aqsa Mosque, saying Turkey expected the people who were arrested during Sunday's incidents to be released as soon as possible.

Many Muslims beleive the frequent Israeli attacks on the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound are part of a Judaization campaign that targets the holy city of Al-Quds.

MP/HGL