The secretariat said the move constitutes an infringement on freedom of worship and a violation of the historical and legal status quo of the holy sites in Jerusalem.
It stressed that Al-Aqsa Mosque holds special religious and historical significance for Muslims worldwide and that any measures restricting access to it or obstructing the performance of religious rites there would escalate tensions and undermine efforts to achieve calm and stability.
The secretariat also emphasized the need to respect the status quo of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem and to adhere to international law and relevant conventions that guarantee the protection of holy sites and freedom of worship, particularly UN resolutions 252 (1968), 267 (1969), and 476 (1980).
It called on the relevant parties to immediately end the measures that led to the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque and to reopen it to worshippers, ensure free access to holy sites and the performance of religious rites without restrictions, and work to de-escalate tensions and avoid any steps that could inflame the situation in the region.
It also noted that the entire area of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Noble Sanctuary, covering 144 dunams, is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims.
The secretariat also expressed concern over restrictions imposed on access to the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, including its closure, saying this violates freedom of worship and undermines the sanctity of one of the most prominent religious and historical sites.
It called on the international community and relevant organizations to assume their responsibilities in protecting holy sites and preserving the existing historical and legal status in Jerusalem, affirming that respect for holy sites and freedom of worship are essential for maintaining stability and promoting prospects for peace in the region.
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