UAE Joins Regional Partners in Condemning Actions at Al Aqsa Mosque

UAE and Seven Countries Issue Joint Statement on Al Aqsa Mosque

The United Arab Emirates has joined seven regional partner countries in condemning recent actions at the Al Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, expressing concern over developments that they say threaten the site's historical and legal status.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the UAE, Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar criticized recent visits by Israeli settlers to the Al Aqsa Mosque compound. According to the statement, these visits were led by Israeli ministers described as extremists and took place under the protection of Israeli security forces.

The participating countries said the developments could increase tensions in the region and called for respect for international law and the established arrangements governing the holy site.

Concerns Over Access Restrictions and Recent Developments

The joint statement expressed concern over what the ministers described as actions that changed the atmosphere at the Al Aqsa Mosque compound.

The ministers referred to:

• Visits by Israeli settlers to the mosque compound.
• The raising of the Israeli flag inside the compound.
• Restrictions affecting Muslim worshippers' access.
• Measures that they said could alter the site's historical and legal status.

The statement argued that these actions violate international law, relevant United Nations resolutions, and the longstanding status quo governing one of Islam’s holiest sites.

Call for Respect of International Law

The foreign ministers urged Israel to remove restrictions affecting access to Jerusalem’s Old City and the Al Aqsa Mosque compound.

They also called on the international community to take a firm position to prevent further actions that could increase tensions around Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

According to the joint statement, protecting religious freedom and preserving the historical status of holy places are essential for regional peace and stability.

Importance of Al Aqsa Mosque

Al Aqsa Mosque, located in Jerusalem’s Old City, is one of the holiest sites in Islam and is also part of a location that holds deep religious significance for Judaism and Christianity.

Because of its religious and political importance, developments at the site frequently attract international attention and diplomatic responses from countries across the Middle East and beyond.

The ministers emphasized the importance of preserving the existing legal and historical arrangements that govern the site.

Regional and International Implications

The joint position reflects growing regional concern over developments in Jerusalem and their potential impact on peace and stability in the Middle East.

Analysts note that statements from multiple countries demonstrate a coordinated diplomatic effort to encourage restraint, maintain access to religious sites, and avoid further escalation.

The issue remains closely monitored by international organizations due to its significance for regional security and interfaith relations.