‘Systematic Provocation’: Condemnations Follow Provocative Zionists’ Prayer at Al‑Aqsa Mosque
The incident occurred amid escalating tensions over Israeli occupation policies. Under the long-established status quo, Jews may visit the Al‑Aqsa compound but are strictly prohibited from praying there. East al-Quds remains occupied territory since the Israeli regime’s annexation following the 1967 war.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson condemned the visit, calling it “a blatant affront to the sanctity and religious status of the sacred site,” adding that the incursion reflects “malicious intent to perpetuate tension and crisis in the occupied Palestinian territories and the broader region.”
Far-right Zionist minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir entered the Al‑Aqsa Mosque compound on Sunday, breaking with traditional norms and calling for full reoccupation of the Gaza Strip.
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A video posted on X captured him urging a campaign to “declare sovereignty over the entire Gaza Strip, take down every Hamas member, and encourage voluntary migration (of Palestinians from Gaza).” He asserted that only through these measures would Israel “bring back the hostages and win the war.”
State‑owned Kan TV reported that Ben‑Gvir also prayed at the site despite the ban, and noted that Israeli military present provided security for his provocative act.
In response, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation described the intrusion as part of Israeli attempts to “change the historical and legal status quo in the blessed Al‑Aqsa Mosque,” and called on the international community to curb systematic violations targeting sacred sites in East al-Quds.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry warned that such conduct “only serves to fuel conflict in the region,” stressing that it breaches international laws and undermines peace efforts. Riyadh renewed its appeal for urgent international action to halt provocative Israeli government practices.
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Jordan’s Foreign Ministry denounced the action as a “flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law,” labelling it an “unacceptable provocation and escalation.” Amman asserted that Al‑Aqsa remains exclusively for Muslim worship and reaffirmed the legal authority of Jordan’s Waqf Department over the site.
Türkiye sharply criticized the raid by government officials and settlers under police protection. The Turkish Foreign Ministry argued that these actions threaten regional peace and are “systematic provocations by the occupying power Israel,” undermining the prospect of a two‑state solution. It pressed for an immediate ceasefire and peaceful resolution.
Palestinian authorities also voiced strong condemnation. The Foreign Ministry said Israeli officials are pursuing a “colonial, racist policy aimed at erasing the Palestinian presence in Jerusalem and liquidating the Palestinian cause.” It demanded international intervention, including from the UN Security Council.
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Hamas described the intrusion as a “criminal act” and “an intensifying crime against Al‑Aqsa Mosque,” representative of Israel’s broader campaign against Palestinian people and sacred sites.
The Muslim World League’s Secretary‑General, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Al‑Issa, labelled the raid a “heinous crime” that violates the sanctity of Islam’s holy sites. He warned of the implications if Israel continues its provocative practices, urging global awareness and action.
Source: Agencies
