Israeli occupation authorities continue to close the Blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem for the 18th consecutive day, citing "security" pretexts related to regional developments.
اضافة اعلان
The Jerusalem Governorate affirmed its categorical rejection of this measure. It clarified that its position does not stem from a disregard for worshiper safety or the importance of preserving life, but rather from a firm legal and political principle regarding the entity exclusively authorized to manage the affairs of Al-Aqsa Mosque and other holy sites in Jerusalem.
Exclusive Jurisdiction of the Jordanian Waqf
The Governorate explained that the management of Al-Aqsa Mosque—including regulating entry and the opening or closing of its gates—is the exclusive prerogative of the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf Department, which is affiliated with the Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf, Islamic Affairs, and Holy Places. This is based on the Hashemite Custodianship over Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, a role recognized internationally and historically acknowledged by the occupation authorities themselves through decades-long understandings.
The statement pointed out that the experience during the COVID-19 pandemic serves as clear evidence of jurisdiction; the decision to close Al-Aqsa Mosque then was not issued by the occupation police, but by the Islamic Waqf Department itself. That voluntary and responsible decision confirmed that managing the mosque’s affairs, including exceptional closures, is an inherent right of the Waqf.
Violation of the "Status Quo"
The Governorate considered any intervention by the occupation police in closing the mosque or determining access mechanisms a direct assault on these powers. It described it as an attempt to impose a new reality that strips the Waqf of its legal and religious role and undermines the Historical and Legal Status Quo in Jerusalem.
The statement warned that the danger lies in setting a precedent for systemic intervention. By monopolizing the decision to open or close holy sites, the occupation could futurely disrupt worship under the guise of "security" or in response to pressure from colonial groups seeking to Judaize the Old City.
This behavior, the statement added, extends to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, reflecting a general trend toward security control over both Islamic and Christian sanctities in violation of international law.
Source: WAFA
