Jordan wants to limit Temple Mount access

JERUSALEM, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Jordan asked Israel to expand restrictions on access to Temple Mount until tensions ease amid reports of Palestinian efforts to gain control of East Jerusalem.

The Jordanian request came a day after violent demonstrations and clashes between Muslims and Israeli security forces in Jerusalem's Old City.

A Jordanian official told Haaretz Tuesday Israel should bar the entry of Jews and tourists to Temple Mount until the situation calms. Israeli police already are restricting the age of Muslim worshippers to the area.

In addition, the Palestinian Authority must negotiate conditions with Israel and the Waqf, which manages Temple Mount, for visiting the site, the report said.

The newspaper noted since 2003, Israeli police have allowed Jews and tourists free access to Temple Mount for limited periods each day.

Yedioth Aharonoth quoted unnamed Israeli security officials warning of an attempt by the Palestinian Authority to gain control of East Jerusalem.

The Israel Security Agency presented a paper to government ministers saying the Palestinian effort has led to disturbances similar to what security forces encountered in recent days, the paper said.

Since Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayed has taken charge of Jerusalem affairs, millions of dollars have been poured into strengthening the economic infrastructure of East Jerusalem, the paper said.

Security has been tightened in the capital ahead of the annual Sukkot parade.