After a year-long ban imposed by Israeli authorities, Palestinian activist Hanady Halawani joyfully takes her first steps around Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Over the years, the woman has been banned from accessing the holy site several times and has been arrested dozens for her political activism.

Halawani said she is just trying to defend and protect Al-Aqsa Mosque, a contested site revered by both Muslims and Jews, from settlers.

The clip features an interview in Arabic with the activist.

The video was filmed on June 12.

RESTRICTION SUMMARY: Jerusalem, 12 June 2023. Palestinian Hanadi Al-Halawani wanders around the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex for the first time in a year, after the end of the Israeli authorities' decision to banish her from the compound, in Jerusalem.

0.1 SOUNDBITE (in Arabic) Hanadi Al-Halawani.

STORYLINE:

Al-Halawani is one of several Palestinian women who have been repeatedly barred by the Israeli authorities from entering Al-Aqsa Mosque compound because of her political activism.

Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam after Makkah and Madinah in Saudi Arabia. Jewish settlers, among others, refer to the sanctuary as the "Temple Mount" and claim it for themselves.