Qatar issued an unequivocal condemnation of recent threats made by Israeli settlers against Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem, denouncing what it described as “provocative and aggressive acts,” that may escalate tensions further and destabilize an already fragile situation in the region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement criticizing such acts that could further escalate tensions or further destabilize it.
Statement issued in response to reports of far-right Israeli settlers calling for mass incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque compound during Jewish Passover holiday, widely seen as provocative provocation against Palestinian worshipers and breach of its sacred nature.
Qatar strongly condemns and rejects Israeli extremist groups’ threats to storm Al-Aqsa Mosque as dangerously escalated actions that violate international laws and resolutions concerning Jerusalem and Islamic holy sites. Such threats represent a blatant breach of these obligations.” The statement continues:
Qatar issued a statement emphasizing its unflinching support for Palestinians and their right to freely practice religion without interference. Additionally, this call also emphasizes the urgency for international intervention against Israeli actions taken by settlers or security forces that threaten one of Islam’s holiest sites – as they could endanger peace and sanctity at one of Islam’s holiest sites.
Qatari officials urged the UN and other international bodies to take immediate steps to preserve Al-Aqsa Mosque’s historical and religious status quo, warning that continuing provocations could spark unrest across the region.
Recently, the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound — commonly referred to by Muslims as Haram al-Sharif and Jews as Temple Mount–has become an ongoing source of tension, especially during overlapping religious holidays. Palestinian leaders have described settler incursions into this holy site under Jordanian custodianship as part of a wider attempt at changing its status quo.
Qatar’s latest response echoes those of several Arab and Muslim-majority countries who have expressed alarm at Israel’s failure to combat settler violence and safeguard the mosque’s integrity.
Doha concluded its statement by appealing for concerted Arab and Islamic action to protect Al-Aqsa and ensure Jerusalem maintains its dignity.
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