Eight countries condemn Israel over Ramadan closure of Al Aqsa
According to an article published by The National on March 11th, several Muslim-majority nations have condemned Israel’s decision to close the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem during the holy month of Ramadan.
The criticism was expressed in a joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of eight countries: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan and Qatar.
These countries strongly criticised Israel’s move to deny Palestinian worshippers access to the mosque compound during one of the most important religious periods of the year for Muslims.
In their joint declaration, the ministers argued that the closure violates international law and undermines the historical status quo governing the holy site.
They also rejected what they described as provocative actions affecting worshippers at the compound, which is regarded as the third-holiest site in Islam.
Located in the Old City of Jerusalem, Al Aqsa Mosque forms part of the Haram Al Sharif complex. While Jewish visitors are permitted to enter the area at specific times that do not coincide with Muslim prayers, Jewish prayer itself is not allowed there under long-standing arrangements.
The diplomatic reaction came after Israeli authorities imposed strict security measures that effectively closed Jerusalem’s Old City. The restrictions were introduced after the US-Israeli war on Iran began on February 28th, which prompted nationwide emergency measures across Israel.
Under these conditions, Israeli police have maintained a heavy presence in the Old City. Officers stationed at checkpoints and patrols throughout the area have been carrying out identity checks on Palestinians attempting to move through the neighbourhood.
Roads and pathways leading to the mosque’s gates have been closed, preventing worshippers from reaching the site.
The restrictions have also affected other major religious landmarks located nearby. Access to the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, two sites of significant importance to Jewish and Christian communities, respectively, has been closed.
Israeli authorities have defended the measures as part of broader wartime security regulations. Police previously said the restrictions are consistent with emergency rules imposed across the country during the conflict with Iran and Hezbollah. Despite a reported slowdown in missile attacks, officials say the threat has not fully disappeared.
Meanwhile, the foreign ministers who signed the statement insisted that Israel does not have legal authority over occupied East Jerusalem or its religious sites.
Their joint message stressed that unrestricted access to places of worship should be respected and protected under international law.
The dispute highlights the continuing sensitivity surrounding Jerusalem’s holy sites, particularly during Ramadan, when large numbers of Muslim worshippers traditionally gather at Al Aqsa for prayers.
The National, Maghrebi.com
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