Cairo, Egypt – Arab states and regional organizations, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the African Union (AU), condemned Israel’s decision to close the Al-Aqsa Mosque. They considered this move a dangerous escalation and a blatant violation of the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem.
Official statements issued by several Arab states affirmed that closing the Al-Aqsa Mosque to worshippers constitutes an attack on freedom of worship and a provocation of Muslim sentiments worldwide. They also called for the immediate reversal of these measures.
For its part, the OIC expressed its strong condemnation of the decision. It emphasized that the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a holy site for Muslims and that any restrictions on entry to or prayer at it constitute a violation of international law and resolutions of international legitimacy.
The African Union also expressed its deep concern over the recent developments in Jerusalem. It called for respect for the status quo at the holy sites and urged immediate steps to de-escalate tensions and prevent further escalation in the region.
The condemning parties called on the international community to take immediate action to halt measures that could further inflame tensions. They stressed that the continuation of such actions could have serious repercussions for regional stability.
These condemnations come at a time of escalating tensions in the Palestinian territories. There are fears that Israeli actions in Jerusalem could trigger a new wave of escalation and violence in the region.
