International Conference on Jerusalem to Kick-Start in Istanbul

Clouds gather over the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem’s Old City. (File)

Istanbul, MINA – An international conference on Jerusalem is scheduled to kick-start in Istanbul, Turkey, on Monday and Tuesday to discuss ways to safeguard the question of Jerusalem, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported, citing the Turkish Directorate of Religious Affairs.

The meeting on “Jerusalem: The City Blessed by Revelation” will draw attention to the importance of Jerusalem in Islamic faith and the consequences of US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

Two panels will be held on “The Muslim Identity of Jerusalem” and “The Experience of Co-Existence: The Example of Jerusalem,” said the statement.

Palestine’s ambassador to Turkey Faed Mustafa said the meeting will also call for reinforcing solidarity with the Palestinian people as well as promoting the cause of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Mustafa called on the countries participating in the conference to translate their positions towards Jerusalem and practice pressure on the Israeli government to stop its crimes and violations against the Palestinian people and the holy sites, including al-Aqsa Mosque.

The two-day meeting will include representatives from 20 countries, including Pakistan, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Britain, France, Kenya, Somalia, and Uganda.

Around 70 Muslim scholars and researchers will also take part in the event. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)