Qatar and Arab Nations Condemn Israeli Actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque

Doha, Qatar Jul 24, 2026 ALN: The Foreign Ministers of the State of Qatar, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Republic of Turkiye, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Arab Republic of Egypt have issued a strong condemnation of the recent Israeli actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque, also known as Haram Al-Sharif. This condemnation comes amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly surrounding the sensitive and historically significant site that holds religious importance for Muslims worldwide.

Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the heart of the Old City of Jerusalem, is revered as the third holiest site in Islam. Its significance is not only religious but also deeply intertwined with the historical and political narratives of both Palestinians and Israelis. The mosque and its surrounding compound have been a flashpoint for conflict, symbolizing broader issues of sovereignty, identity, and religious rights in a region marked by tension and strife.

The recent joint statement by the foreign ministers highlights several key issues, particularly the mass incursions by Israeli settlers, which have reportedly been led by extremist Israeli ministers. These incursions are often conducted under the protection of Israeli police forces, prompting concerns about the safety and security of Muslim worshippers at the site. The act of raising the Israeli flag within the mosque’s courtyards and the erection of tents by Israeli police have been described as provocative actions that further escalate tensions.

The ministers assert that these actions represent a blatant violation of international law, relevant United Nations resolutions, and the established historical and legal status quo regarding holy sites in occupied East Jerusalem. This assertion is grounded in a broader context of international law, which recognizes the rights of occupied peoples and the sanctity of religious sites, affirming that no occupying power can unilaterally alter the status of such locations.

In their statement, the foreign ministers condemned not only the actions of the Israeli government but also the broader atmosphere of incitement and violence that has been perpetuated by extremist groups. They expressed concern that these provocations are likely to fuel hatred and extremism, undermining efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in the region. The call for a two-state solution—a framework that envisions an independent State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel—remains a central tenet of international diplomatic efforts, yet such escalatory actions threaten to derail these fragile negotiations.

The ministers pointed out that restrictions on access to Jerusalem’s Old City and its holy sites are not merely administrative measures; they represent a violation of international humanitarian law. The arbitrary restrictions placed on worshippers, particularly those affecting Muslims seeking to access Al-Aqsa Mosque, have been criticized as discriminatory and unjust. Such actions are viewed as attempts to alter the demographic and cultural landscape of the Old City, which has historically been home to diverse religious communities.

Furthermore, the ministers emphasized that Israel holds no sovereignty over occupied Jerusalem or its Islamic and Christian holy sites. This assertion is particularly significant given the ongoing disputes over the control and administration of these sites. The historic custodianship of the holy sites, particularly by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is recognized as crucial in maintaining the status quo and ensuring the rights of worshippers from different faiths.

The statement also reaffirmed that the entire 144-dunum area of Al-Aqsa Mosque/Haram Al-Sharif is designated exclusively for Muslim worship. The Jerusalem Waqf and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs Department, which is affiliated with the Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf, Islamic Affairs and Holy Places, is recognized as the sole legal authority responsible for regulating all matters related to the mosque, including access and entry. This delineation of authority is vital in the context of ongoing tensions, as it underscores the need for respect for existing governance structures and religious rights.

In response to the ongoing situation, the foreign ministers called upon Israel, as the occupying power, to immediately lift restrictions on access to the Old City of Jerusalem and to refrain from obstructing Muslim worshippers' access to Al-Aqsa Mosque. This call reflects a broader demand for the protection of religious freedoms and the preservation of the sanctity of holy sites, which are essential for maintaining peace and coexistence in a region fraught with conflict.

Moreover, the foreign ministers urged the international community to take a firm stance against Israel's ongoing violations and illegal practices concerning Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. The call for action emphasizes the need for global awareness and intervention to uphold the sanctity of these sites, which are not only significant to local communities but also hold importance for millions of believers around the world.

The implications of these developments are profound, as they highlight the fragile nature of peace in the region and the potential for escalation should provocations continue. The situation at Al-Aqsa Mosque is emblematic of the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where religious, historical, and political dimensions intersect. The international community's response to these tensions will be crucial in determining the future of peace efforts and the potential for a resolution to the longstanding conflict.

In conclusion, the condemnation by the foreign ministers of Qatar and several Arab nations reflects a collective concern over the actions of the Israeli government and their implications for peace and stability in the region. As the situation continues to evolve, the need for dialogue, respect for international law, and the protection of religious freedoms remains paramount in the quest for a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.