Arab League Condemns Israeli Escalation at Al-Aqsa Mosque
The League of Arab States urged the UN Security Council to stop Israeli military restrictions and attempts to alter the status quo at the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The League of Arab States condemned an escalation of Israeli military measures and restrictions across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. In statements issued over the weekend, the organization warned of a dangerous deterioration at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, specifically accusing Israeli authorities of attempting to alter the site's historical and legal status quo by introducing Jewish prayer books and religious items into the compound.
The League reported that Israeli military closures of roads and checkpoints have intensified during Jewish holidays, impeding Palestinian access to workplaces and worship. These concerns follow a September 20 event where approximately 800 Israeli settlers, including official Itamar Ben-Gvir, entered the mosque compound under police protection.
In response to the incursions, Hamas warned that such actions would not change the Islamic identity of the city. The General Secretariat of the League of Arab States has called on the United Nations Security Council to intervene and compel Israel to cease practices that violate Palestinian rights and the freedom of worship at Islamic and Christian holy sites.