Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir standing in front of the Al-Aqsa Mosque , in occupied Jerusalem. Photo courtesy of Quds news.
The statement underscored Cairo’s rejection of actions that undermine the historic and legal status quo in East Jerusalem, warning that such moves risk further inflaming tensions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Egypt said the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound “in its entirety” is an exclusive place of worship for Muslims, stressing that any attempts to impose a new fait accompli are “null and void” and cannot be accepted.
It reiterated that Israel has no sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem.
Cairo also expressed deep concern over ongoing restrictions on worshippers’ access to the site and limitations on freedom of worship, describing them as a grave breach of international law that could lead to further escalation on the ground.
The ministry highlighted the importance of respecting the historic and legal role of Islamic endowments (Awqaf) in Jerusalem, particularly the Hashemite custodianship over the management of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the regulation of access, in a way that preserves its sanctity and maintains the status quo.
The condemnation follows the most recent storming by Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir of the Al-Aqsa compound on Monday evening through the Al-Maghariba Gate under heavy police protection, according to the Islamic Waqf in Jerusalem.
The Waqf said Ben-Gvir toured the compound before exiting the same way under the protection of Israeli occupation forces, who deployed heavily in the area and imposed strict security measures, including restricting Palestinian movement and limiting access for worshippers.
Israeli occupation authorities have closed Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site for Muslims, to Palestinian worshippers since the start of the month of Ramadan and through Eid Al-Fitr.
The Ben-Gvir move comes amid growing calls from Israeli settler groups to increase such stormings.
The Palestinian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs also condemned the move, warning that it threatens the sanctity of Al-Aqsa.
The ministry said such actions by Israeli officials constitute a violation of the site’s religious status and called for international intervention to ensure protection of the mosque and guarantee freedom of worship.
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