Jordan’s Foreign Minister Warns of Explosive Situation at Al-Aqsa Mosque
The recent restrictions imposed by Israel on Muslim worshippers’ access to Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque compound during the holy month of Ramadan have sparked concerns and warnings from Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi. In a joint news conference with the Vatican’s foreign minister, Safadi expressed his country’s rejection of Israel’s move to limit access to the mosque, citing security needs due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, considered the third holiest site in Islam, is also revered by Jews as Temple Mount, making it a longstanding flashpoint for tensions. Safadi emphasized that any desecration of the mosque’s sanctity is akin to playing with fire and could lead to a dangerous escalation of the situation.
Jordan, which oversees the holy site, shares the Palestinian perspective that restricting Muslim worshippers’ access to Al-Aqsa Mosque, especially during a time when Gaza is facing war and hunger, is an infringement on freedom of worship. Safadi warned that denying worshippers the opportunity to perform their religious duties during Ramadan and limiting their entry to the mosque could fuel further unrest and violence.
The Foreign Minister also raised concerns about unilateral Israeli measures in the occupied West Bank, including accelerated Jewish settlement construction on Palestinian land and increased attacks by armed settlers on Palestinian villagers. Safadi highlighted the volatile situation in the West Bank, where clashes between Palestinians and Israeli security forces have resulted in numerous casualties.
The international community has long condemned Israel’s construction of settlements in the occupied territories, viewing them as illegal under international law. Safadi pointed out that the holy month of Ramadan has coincided with a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Palestinians are suffering from food shortages due to Israel’s blockade.
As Safadi noted, the situation in Gaza has been exacerbated by Israel’s military campaign, which has raised concerns about a potential famine and a rising death toll. Despite Israel’s denial of targeting civilians or intentionally causing hunger in Gaza, the mounting humanitarian crisis has drawn condemnation from various countries and organizations.
The escalating tensions in Jerusalem and the West Bank underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Safadi’s warnings about the potential for further violence and instability serve as a reminder of the volatile nature of the situation in the region.
In conclusion, the restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan have heightened tensions and raised fears of a potential escalation. Jordan’s Foreign Minister’s strong stance against these measures reflects the broader concerns about the impact on religious freedom and stability in the region. As efforts continue to address the root causes of the conflict and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, it is essential for all parties to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation to prevent further violence and suffering.