A group of Muslim-majority countries has strongly condemned the reported closure of the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque, also known as Al-Haram Al-Sharif, by Government of Israel authorities.
In a joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, the countries criticized restrictions placed on Muslim worshippers attempting to access the holy site.
Restrictions During Ramadan
According to the statement, Israeli authorities imposed security restrictions on access to the Old City of Jerusalem and its places of worship, including the closure of gates leading to Al-Aqsa Mosque. The measures reportedly affected Muslim worshippers seeking to pray at the mosque, including during the holy month of Ramadan.
The ministers described the restrictions as arbitrary and discriminatory, arguing that such actions violate international law and undermine the historical status quo governing religious sites in Jerusalem.
Call to Reopen the Mosque
The joint statement called on Israel to immediately reopen the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque, remove restrictions on access, and allow Muslim worshippers to freely perform religious prayers at the site. The countries emphasized that preventing worship during Ramadan represents a serious infringement on religious freedom and the sanctity of one of Islam’s holiest locations.
Concerns Over the Status of Jerusalem
The statement also warned that restricting access to Al-Aqsa Mosque could be seen as part of broader attempts to alter the historical and legal status quo in occupied Jerusalem. The signatory countries stressed that protecting access to holy sites is not only a concern for Muslims but also a broader issue of safeguarding religious freedom and preserving sacred heritage.
Pakistan Reaffirms Support for Palestinians
Pakistan reiterated its firm support for the Palestinian people and the wider Muslim world in defending the sanctity and historical status of Al-Haram Al-Sharif. Officials also urged the international community to go beyond statements and ensure accountability for actions that violate international law and humanitarian principles.
The ministers concluded that Jerusalem’s holy sites must remain protected under international law and accessible to worshippers without obstruction.
