News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — The government of the Maldives issued a strong condemnation on Monday of Israel’s National Security Minister for entering and praying in the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem, calling the action a violation of international law and the site’s longstanding status quo.
In a statement, the Maldives described the minister’s actions as “provocative” and a direct affront to the sanctity of one of Islam’s holiest sites. The government urged the international community to take “decisive and urgent action” to protect the mosque and prevent further violations, which it said deeply offended Muslims worldwide.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in Jerusalem’s Old City, is a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, revered by Muslims as the third holiest site in Islam. The status quo, established decades ago, restricts non-Muslim prayer at the site to maintain peace.
The Maldives reiterated its support for the Palestinian people and called for international efforts to safeguard Islamic religious sites and uphold Palestinian rights. The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Al-Aqsa compound often serving as a focal point for clashes.
