The Palestinian archeological community has accused Tel Aviv of purposefully damaging Islam’s third-holiest mosque.

"The strong can force their will. Look at the Roman Court in Jerusalem al-Quds. The Israelis turned it into a temple, although, it is not related to Judaism," said Palestinian archeologist Ibrahim al-Fanni.

"The Israelis invented their own history and the Palestinians failed to look into their own past. Israelis continue with their excavations to create historical identity for themselves."

"This was expected. Experts have always warned of such an outcome and there is a real possibility of damage to al-Aqsa Mosque," said Esmat Mansour, expert on Israeli affairs.

"If these activities harmed the mosque in any way, the entire region will be set on fire because protecting al-Aqsa is a duty for every Muslim and Arab citizen."