Al Aqsa Mosque incursions condemned by UAE and allied nations, warning of escalating tensions and violations of international law.
ABU DHABI: Al Aqsa Mosque incursions drew strong condemnation from the UAE and seven other nations, as foreign ministers jointly denounced repeated violations at the holy site and warned of rising regional tensions.
The ministers of the UAE, Jordan, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Qatar criticised what they described as ongoing breaches of the historic and legal status quo in Jerusalem’s Islamic and Christian holy sites. They highlighted repeated incursions by Israeli settlers into Al Aqsa Mosque under police protection, alongside actions such as raising flags within the compound.
In a joint statement, the group said the Al Aqsa Mosque incursions represent a clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law. They warned that such actions are a serious provocation to Muslims worldwide and undermine the sanctity of the holy city.
The ministers reaffirmed their rejection of any attempts to alter the established status of Jerusalem’s religious sites. They also stressed the importance of maintaining the role of Jordan’s custodianship in administering the mosque and regulating access.
Beyond the Al Aqsa Mosque incursions, the statement condemned the expansion of settlements and increasing violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The ministers pointed to recent attacks on schools and civilians, calling for accountability and adherence to international legal frameworks.
They further emphasised that such developments threaten the viability of a two-state solution and risk escalating instability in the region. The group urged the international community to take decisive action to halt violations and support efforts towards a comprehensive and lasting peace.
