A Young French Muslim Walks from His Country to Al-Aqsa Mosque

Al-Quds, MINA – A French Muslim, Neil Dauxois, was greeted by many Palestinians in Jerusalem after he walked 3,900 kilometers (2423 miles) in 10 months to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque in Occupied East Jerusalem, Anadolu Agency reported.

Dauxois, 26, a French Muslim of Algerian descent, set off on foot from France 10 months ago to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque during the holy month of Ramadan.

Dauxois passed through 10 countries, including Turkiye, to reach his goal.

Dauxois traveled through Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Cyprus, and Jordan.

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He told Anadolu that his adventures were “sometimes good, but sometimes very difficult”.

This young Muslim highlighted the hospitality shown by people in various countries during his travels.

“When I was in Turkiye, people were very nice and friendly. If it wasn’t for their help, I would have given up,” said Dauxois.

“I have more difficulty in places where the people are not friendly,” says Dauxois.

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Dauxois also spoke of a difficult time he had walking through certain areas when it was cold.

“On my own, I made it through many places safely, thanks to the kind local people. I couldn’t have done it without them,” he said.

Welcome to Jerusalem

As news of Dauxois’ travels spread, Palestinians of all ages came to meet him.

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Dauxois said he was surprised by the welcome given by the Palestinians.

“People greet me with genuine hospitality. I am very happy to be here. I cannot express my joy in words,” said Dauxois.

“Many Palestinians here have invited me to their homes, I was very surprised, but very happy,” he added.

He also spoke about his family’s support for his adventure.

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“My mother was worried, but after seeing me in videos on social media, she told me she was proud of me,” said Dauxois.

He claimed to have visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque four years ago.

“I know the situation here. I have many Palestinian friends who cannot visit this place,” he said.

Dauxois affirmed Muslim support for the Palestinian cause, stating that Al-Aqsa Mosque and Jerusalem were “always on their minds”.

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The young Muslim traveler said his next goal was “to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca in a month and a half.”

“People in Saudi Arabia are also following me. I want to receive their help on my next trip,” he said. (T/RE1)

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)

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