Palestinian Muslim worshippers gather at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem's old city. AFP
Earlier Thursday, Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Jerusalem. He sparked Arab outcry, accusing the far-right politician of a deliberate provocation.
In a statement, Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned against such extremist actions, which constitute a blatant and reprehensible violation of the historical and legal status quo of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The ministry also stressed that these unacceptable practices undermine and inflame the Muslims’ sentiments worldwide.
Egypt called on Israel to adhere to its obligations as an occupying power, highlighting the necessity of respecting the Al-Aqsa Mosque as a sacred place of worship exclusively for Muslims.
Cairo further underscored the need for the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to take decisive measures against these actions and halt such violations that practically reject opportunities for peaceful coexistence.
Additionally, Egypt underscored the importance of reaching a just, comprehensive, and lasting solution to the Palestinian cause.
"This solution should ensure the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, thereby acknowledging the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination," the ministry said.
Ben-Gvir and other Israeli far-right politicians’ provoking actions and statements have been heightening tensions in the Palestinian territories since the outbreak of the Israeli war on Gaza in October 2023.
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