Pakistan, along with seven Muslim-majority countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Türkiye, Jordan, Egypt, Indonesia, and Qatar, has strongly condemned Israel over restrictions imposed on worship at holy sites in Jerusalem.
The joint statement criticized limitations on access to Al-Aqsa Mosque and restrictions affecting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, particularly during Ramadan and Palm Sunday observances.
According to the statement, these actions by Israel constitute a violation of international law and the historical status quo of Jerusalem. The countries emphasized that worshippers must be allowed full and unhindered access to religious sites.
Jerusalem holds deep religious significance for Muslims, Christians, and Jews. The ongoing restrictions have intensified tensions in the region, especially amid the broader conflict that escalated after the Gaza war began in 2023.
The foreign ministers of the participating countries urged the international community to take a firm stance against these measures and called for immediate lifting of restrictions on worshippers.
The statement also highlighted concerns over the repeated closure of access points to Al-Aqsa Mosque, which remained restricted for an extended period, including during Ramadan, raising fears of further regional instability.
Several European leaders also expressed concern after the cancellation of Palm Sunday Mass in Jerusalem, adding international pressure over the situation.
