The World Muslim League has expressed its complete support for the contents of the statement issued by the foreign ministers of several countries, including: the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Republic of Indonesia, the Republic of Turkey, the State of Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The statement rejects and condemns the ongoing restrictions imposed by Israel on the freedom of worship for Muslims and Christians in occupied Jerusalem, including the closure of the doors of Al-Aqsa Mosque "the Noble Sanctuary" to Muslim worshippers and preventing the Latin Patriarch and Christians in Jerusalem from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to perform their rituals.
In a statement from the League's General Secretariat, the Secretary-General, the Chairman of the Council of Muslim Scholars, His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, reiterated the League's rejection and condemnation of these restrictions, which are inconsistent with the right to worship guaranteed to all. He emphasized the importance of the ministers' call for Israel, as the occupying power, to immediately stop closing the doors of Al-Aqsa Mosque "the Noble Sanctuary" and to remove the restrictions imposed on access to the Old City of Jerusalem.
Details of the Event
The statement issued by the Arab and Islamic foreign ministers reflects deep concern over the increasing Israeli violations in Jerusalem. It pointed out that these measures represent a blatant violation of international law, including international humanitarian law, and a breach of the existing historical and legal status. The ministers also called on the international community to take a firm stance that obliges Israel to stop its ongoing violations and illegal practices against Islamic and Christian holy sites.
These developments come at a time when tensions in the region are escalating, as Israel continues to impose strict restrictions on freedom of worship, provoking widespread discontent in the Arab and Islamic worlds. The League confirmed that these violations are not limited to Muslims only, but also include Christians, necessitating a serious response from the international community.
Background & Context
Historically, Jerusalem has witnessed many tensions and conflicts over religious holy sites. Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre are among the most important religious sites in the world, representing symbols of Islamic and Christian identity. Since the occupation of Jerusalem in 1967, Islamic and Christian holy sites have faced numerous challenges, including restrictions on entry and prayer.
In recent years, Israeli violations have escalated, leading to widespread condemnation from Arab and Islamic countries. Reports have shown that these violations include the closure of mosques and churches, and restrictions on the movement of worshippers, raising significant concerns about the future of freedom of worship in the holy city.
Impact & Consequences
The World Muslim League asserts that the continuation of these violations could exacerbate tensions in the region and increase the intensity of the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis. Furthermore, the international community's disregard for these violations may encourage Israel to persist in its repressive policies.
The League's call for the international community to take a firm stance reflects the urgent need to protect holy sites and worship rights. Ongoing neglect of these issues could lead to a loss of trust in international efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.
Regional Significance
This issue is considered one of the sensitive matters affecting relations between Arab countries and Israel. Any violation of freedom of worship in Jerusalem is seen as an affront to Islamic and Christian dignity, prompting strong reactions from Arab nations.
The World Muslim League's support for the Arab statement reflects a unified Arab and Islamic stance towards Palestinian issues. These events may also enhance Arab and Islamic solidarity in facing common challenges, highlighting the importance of Jerusalem as a center of religious and political identity.
In conclusion, the issue of freedom of worship in Jerusalem remains a pivotal concern that requires ongoing international attention and effective action to protect the rights of both Muslim and Christian worshippers.