OIC Underlines Preserving Al-Aqsa Mosque Status
In a statement released Monday, the OIC condemned the ongoing violations against the revered Al-Aqsa Mosque and highlighted the urgent need for global intervention.
It underlined that the Al-Aqsa Mosque and its sprawling 144-dunum complex are designated as a place of worship exclusively for Muslims.
The statement also commemorated the fifty-fourth anniversary of a grievous attempt to set ablaze the Al-Aqsa Mosque – a pivotal spiritual landmark for Muslims, being the first Qibla and the third of the Two Holy Mosques.
Amidst a backdrop of escalating violations by Israel and its consistent endeavors to undermine the mosque's status, the OIC highlighted the repeated incursions by extremist Jewish settlers, often guarded by Israeli occupation forces.
These actions have led to the desecration of the holy site, the closure of its gates, and violent attacks on worshippers, flagrantly disregarding the sanctity of religious spaces and the fundamental freedom to worship.
The organization underscored that Al-Quds Al-Sharif, commonly referred to as Jerusalem, is an integral part of the Palestinian territory seized in the 1967 occupation. It categorically rejected any attempts or decisions aimed at changing the city’s demographic or geographical characteristics.
The OIC further denounced any endeavors to impose an alleged Israeli sovereignty over the city and its holy sites, condemning such actions as illegal under international law and the pertinent resolutions of the United Nations.
On the solemn anniversary, the OIC called upon the global community, particularly influential stakeholders, to address the longstanding injustices Palestinians have suffered in recent decades. Central to this appeal is the call to end the Israeli colonial occupation and restore the legitimate rights of Palestinians, including their right of return.
The OIC reiterated the importance of establishing an independent Palestinian state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This vision aligns with relevant United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative – a comprehensive plan that holds the promise of sustainable peace.
In addition, the OIC expressed its deep respect and admiration for the steadfast Palestinian people, stressing that they have remained steadfast and vigilant protectors of land and sacred sites in the face of adversity. The organization also urged for increased support and solidarity for Jerusalem and its resilient Palestinian inhabitants.
The OIC’s resolute stance serves as a rallying cry for the preservation of religious sanctity, international law, and human rights in a city that holds immense significance for millions around the world.
Source: moroccoworldnews.com
