OIC, global leaders condemn al-Aqsa Mosque raid by Israeli minister

JEDDAH: The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) sharply criticised the recent breach of al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and a group of radical settlers.

The OIC denounced the intrusion as a severe breach of international regulations and United Nations (UN) mandates. It condemned the move as defilement of the mosque’s grounds and the obstruction of worshipers from accessing the sacred site.

The organisation stated the incident is viewed as a serious violation of the religious rights of Muslims around the globe.

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The OIC stated that Israel was trying to change the Arab and Islamic character of Jerusalem. It said that Israel, as an occupying power, has no legitimate authority over Jerusalem or its religious sites.

The OIC reiterated that al-Aqsa Mosque remains a site of exclusive worship for Muslims.

The organisation urged the international community, especially the UN Security Council, to take action against the agitators. It also called for an immediate end to Israeli aggression and the need to protect Palestinians.

On Tuesday, Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right Israeli official, and approximately 2,250 radical settlers entered the al-Aqsa Mosque area. Their actions, including prayers and nationalistic displays, are seen as a direct challenge to the established norms governing the site.

The event triggered widespread alarm and condemnation from various international actors.

Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the mosque incursion, labeling it a provocative act intended to escalate tensions in the region. Iranian officials called for global intervention to counter what they see as a deliberate attempt to inflame the conflict and destabilise the area.

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Russia also has voiced its concerns over the incident, urging Israeli authorities to take effective steps to prevent such provocations. Moscow said that such actions undermined efforts to de-escalate the tensions in the regions.