Qatar, Turkiye criticise Aqsa mosque storming

Say it’s violation of international law

Doha: Qatar and Turkiye have condemned the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli settlers, dubbing it a violation of international law and an unacceptable provocation to Muslims worldwide.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Al-Aqsa Mosque is an exclusively Muslim place of worship and unilateral meas­ures to change the historical and legal status quo in Jerusa­lem and its holy sites are void under international law. 

It warned continued violations and repeated provocations could fuel violence and escalation. It urged the international community to act urgently and compel Israel to halt violations against Palesti­nians and their holy sites.

Turkish foreign ministry warned the actions, which seek to disregard the historical and legal status of Jerusalem, particularly Al-Aqsa Mosque, constitute a clear violation of international law and risk deepening instability. 

The statement followed reports Israeli settlers raised Israeli flags near the Dome of the Rock and sang the national anthem under police protection. 

—Agencies