Dubai: Jordan has summoned the Israeli ambassador over recent clashes in the Al Aqsa Mosque, the state media reported yesterday.
Jordan, which oversees the mosque, denounced “radical Israeli attempts” to break into the mosque, under the protection of the Israeli army, reports said. The kingdom also condemned the arrest of worshippers at the holy site.
On Sunday, Israeli police stormed the Al Aqsa compound, one of the most holy and politically sensitive sites, forcefully dispersing a protest by Palestinian Muslim worshippers, after Jewish visitors were allowed to visit.
Jordan, meanwhile, announced that it will take necessary measures in coordination with Palestine to safeguard Islamic and Christian sites in occupied Jerusalem and defend Muslim worshippers in Al Aqsa.
Minister of State for Media Affairs and Communications Mohammad Al Momani was quoted by the Petra News Agency as having said efforts are underway to emphasise the Kingdom’s firm stance against Israeli violations in Al Aqsa Mosque.
He added that under the directives of the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Embassy of Jordan in Israel to take steps to ensure the safety of Al Aqsa Mosque and the protection of the worshippers therein.
Al Momani, who is also the government spokesperson, explained that discussions with Palestine are underway to study measures to ensure the protection of Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem, prevent Israel from implementing plan to divide the Al Aqsa Mosque and halt Israeli soldiers’ continued attacks on Palestinian worshippers.
“These steps will be taken with the support of the Arab League and the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation as well as a number of European Union countries,” the official added.
Earlier Monday, Jordan’s Minister for Media Affairs said that during the clashes, dozens of Israeli soldiers tried to destroy several windows and doors of the mosque and fired tear gas bombs towards worshippers, resulting in serious injuries to many visitors.
Jordan called for an end to the violence and called on Israel to be accountable for the safety of the mosque and worshippers.
Israeli actions represent a “violation” of international agreements and the peace treaty between Jordan and occupied Jerusalem, the kingdom added.
