KHATIB CALLS FOR MAINTAINING THE STATUS QUO IN AL-AQSA

Jerusalem, 12 Muharram 1437/25 October 2015 (MINA) – Director-General of Al-Aqsa Affairs, Azzam al-Khatib, said that the Israeli occupation authorities (IOA) must maintain the status quo in Al-Aqsa Mosque, as it was before the occupation of Jerusalem in 1967.

In his remarks commenting on the results of US Secretary of State John Kerry’s talks in Amman, yesterday evening, Khatib said that the status quo in Al-Aqsa Mosque means that the Israeli occupation is committed not to block access and the entry of any Muslim to Al-Aqsa Mosque at any time, and without specifying the age or categories, The Palestinian Information Center (PIC) quoted by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA) as reporting.

He also demanded that the cameras be connected to the Internet so that the world can see the truth about what is happening in the al-Aqsa Mosque.

In the same context, informed sources said that, the status quo in Al-Aqsa Mosque includes that the police, Special Forces and border guards do not enter to Al-Aqsa Mosque, but shall work on the exterior doors of the Mosque only.

The sources added that the IOA should respect the Palestinian guards of Al-Aqsa Mosque, and not to assault them, abuse them, prevent their work, or detain them.

Besides, the IOA must cancel all sanctions and deportation orders from the Mosque issued against a number of the Palestinian guards, according to sources.

According to the sources, there are already dozens of cameras recording everything that goes on in the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and on the external doors as well, in addition to the thermal balloons and airships, by which violations can be monitored.

The sources pointed out that it is necessary to refute and deny the false trial balloons about Al-Aqsa Mosque, as its boundaries are known for hundreds of years along with its area of 144 acres. It must be known also that al-Aqsa Mosque is for Muslims only and should not be divided.(T/P008/R04)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)