Al Aqsa Mosque access demand by eight Muslim countries against Israeli restrictions

Eight Muslim countries issued a joint statement on Tuesday raising the Al Aqsa Mosque access demand and condemning Israeli restrictions in Jerusalem. The statement called these actions serious violations of religious freedom.

Foreign ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Türkiye, and Qatar signed the statement. They said Israel is limiting access for Muslims to Al Aqsa Mosque and restricting Christian worship at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The ministers demanded that Israel, as an occupying power, immediately reopen the doors of Al Aqsa Mosque. They also called for removing all access restrictions in the Old City of Jerusalem.

According to the statement, stopping worshippers from entering holy places is against international law. It also damages the historical and legal status of religious sites.

The countries strongly rejected any attempt to change the identity of Muslim and Christian holy places. They said such actions are illegal and unacceptable.

The statement also highlighted that Al Aqsa Mosque remained closed for 30 days, even during the holy month of Ramadan. This move was described as highly provocative.

Foreign ministers warned that such steps can increase tensions and threaten regional peace and security. They urged the international community to take a clear and strong position.

The statement reaffirmed that the entire Al Aqsa Mosque compound is a place of worship for Muslims. It also said the Jerusalem Waqf, under Jordan, is the only authority responsible for managing the site.

Finally, the eight countries called on global powers to pressure Israel to stop violations and respect the sanctity of religious places.