RIYADH, Aug 28 – Saudi Arabia on Tuesday denounced comments made by Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, who suggested constructing a synagogue within the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, reported Xinhua.
In a statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry voiced the kingdom’s “categorical rejection” of what it described as “extremist and provocative statements” by the Israeli minister. The ministry also urged respect for the historical and legal status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The kingdom renewed its call to the international community to assume its responsibilities in putting an end to the humanitarian catastrophe endured by Palestinians and activating serious mechanisms to hold Israeli officials accountable for the ongoing violations of international laws, norms, and resolutions, read the statement.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, known to Jews as the Temple Mount, holds sacred significance for both Muslims and Jews and has long been a flashpoint for deadly violence between the two sides.
Under the status quo, non-Muslim worshippers may visit the site in the heart of the Old City but are not permitted to pray there.
In remarks to Israeli Army Radio earlier on Monday, Ben-Gvir said that “Jews can pray on the Temple Mount,” adding that under his term as the national security minister, there will be “no discrimination” between Jews and Muslims.
However, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said in a press statement that “there is no change in the status quo on the Temple Mount.”
In a statement posted on its website, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also condemned Ben-Gvir’s remarks about building a synagogue inside the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.
