Palestinian Church Committee Condemns Al-Aqsa Incursions

The Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine has strongly condemned recent Israeli actions at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, warning that continued incursions and restrictions could further inflame tensions in occupied East Jerusalem.

The statement comes amid reports of heightened security measures around the holy site during Jerusalem Day events, with Palestinian officials accusing Israeli authorities of enabling provocative visits by far-right figures and settlers.

According to Palestinian news agency WAFA, Israeli forces imposed strict restrictions on worshippers at Al-Aqsa, with several Palestinians reportedly assaulted or denied access during prayers. 

Anadolu Agency also reported that a group of Israeli ministers and lawmakers had called for expanded access to the compound for Jewish visitors during the commemorations.

The committee described the actions as a “dangerous escalation” and urged the international community to intervene to protect religious sites and uphold the historical status quo in Jerusalem. Meanwhile, tensions across the city remain high following nationalist marches in East Jerusalem that drew global criticism over anti-Arab chants and clashes in the Old City.