Palestinian Government: "We Will Defend Al-Aqsa Mosque at Any Cost"
Jerusalem — According to an Al Jazeera report, the Palestinian government has expressed deep concern over calls from Israeli settlers to destroy the Al-Aqsa Mosque and build the so-called 'Third Temple' in its place. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement noting that such provocative videos and messages from Israeli extremist groups have spread on Hebrew-language social media, which it considers religious incitement and a violation of international law.
The statement mentioned that an AI-generated video showed a fictional depiction of the destruction of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the construction of the Third Temple, titled "Next Year in Jerusalem." This video has gone viral on social media, but no legal or international actions have been taken against it so far.
Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Concerns: "This provocative campaign is part of a continued attack not only on Al-Aqsa but also on Christian and Islamic religious sites in Jerusalem," the ministry stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The Palestinian government has called on the international community and relevant United Nations agencies to intervene swiftly and take strict action under international law to protect Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in the Muslim world, at any cost.
Al-Aqsa Mosque: The Epicenter of Tensions Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site for Muslims and a symbol of Palestinian national identity. While it is managed under the supervision of Jordan, access to the site is controlled by Israeli forces. Right-wing Israeli politicians and settlers frequently enter the mosque compound, often conducting religious rituals, which is a violation of the existing status quo.
According to Jewish belief, the First and Second Temples were once located at this site, the Second being destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. Israeli authorities' old policies state that non-Muslims can enter the compound at specific times, but worship or the display of religious symbols is prohibited.
Rise of Extremism and International Concern In 2023, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced plans to build a Jewish synagogue in the Al-Aqsa compound, provoking strong reactions internationally. He has visited Al-Aqsa at least six times since December 2022.
Palestinians are concerned that, similar to the situation at the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, there are plans to divide religious sites at Al-Aqsa, undermining Palestinian religious rights. Analysts believe these actions are causing tension and anger not only in the Middle East but among Muslim communities worldwide.
