Islamic Authority Decries Jewish ‘Rituals’ at Al-Aqsa

Israeli settlers increasingly frequent visits to the Al-Aqsa Mosque to perform religious rituals at the site.

Jerusalem, 26 Rabiul Akhir 1438/25 January 2017 (MINA) – Jerusalem’s Authority for Islamic Endowments on Tuesday condemned increasingly frequent visits to the Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli settlers who often perform religious rituals at the site.

Also Read: Israeli Strikes Leave Dozens Dead Across Gaza as Famine Tightens Grip

According to Anadolu Agency, almost daily visits to Al-Aqsa by Jewish settlers, the authority said in a statement, constituted “violations of the sanctity” of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which is regarded by Muslims as the world’s third holiest site.

According to the authority, settlers frequently perform “religious rituals” in the mosque complex, praying and conducting marriages and coming-of age ceremonies.

Such rituals generally enjoy the protection of Israeli police, the authority noted.

“We consider these escalations by Jewish extremists… a threat to the historical status quo at the mosque,” read the statement.

Also Read: Gaza Requires 1,000 Aid Trucks Daily, Only 100 Allowed In

In recent years, extremist Jewish settlers — usually accompanied by Israeli police — have forced their way into the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex with increasing frequency and in increasing numbers. (T/RS05/RS01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)

Also Read: Gaza Sees Surge in Skin Diseases Amid Heat Wave and Water Shortage