Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Jordan has strongly condemned the “storming” of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by extremist Israeli settlers under the protection of Israeli forces on Sunday.
In an official statement, the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates described the incident as a blatant violation of international law and the historical and legal status quo of Jerusalem and its sacred sites. The ministry emphasized that such actions contravene Israel’s obligations as the occupying power.
Sufian Qudah, spokesperson for the ministry, called on Israel to immediately halt all ongoing violations and breaches occurring in Jerusalem and its holy sites. “Israel must cease the imposition of new realities at the Al-Aqsa Mosque,” Qudah stated, highlighting the sensitivity of the site revered by Muslims worldwide.
Addressing the broader context of escalating regional tensions, Qudah expressed concern over Israel’s ongoing attacks against Gaza and Lebanon, as well as its escalations and assaults on Palestinians in the West Bank. He warned that Israel’s unilateral actions threaten to further escalate tensions, pushing the entire region towards catastrophe.
The spokesperson urged the international community to adopt “clear and firm” positions and measures to condemn and halt these violations. He stressed the necessity of providing protection for the Palestinian people, who continue to face hardships amid the ongoing conflict.
Reiterating Jordan’s role in the guardianship of Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem, Qudah affirmed, “The Al-Aqsa Mosque is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims.” He underscored that the Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, through the Jerusalem Awqaf and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs Department, is the sole legal authority responsible for managing all affairs of the mosque and its surrounding areas.
Jordan’s condemnation reflects growing international concern over actions that could inflame an already volatile situation in the Middle East. The call for international intervention underscores the urgency for a resolution that respects the rights and sanctity of all parties involved.
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Jordan condemns Israeli settlers' 'storming' of Aqsa Mosque compound
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