Saudi Arabia denounces Al-Aqsa incursion by Israeli minister and settlers

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned the entry of an Israeli official and a group of settlers into the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem, calling the move a “blatant violation and provocation to Muslims around the world.”

In a statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said the kingdom strongly rejected the entry of an Israeli official and extremist settlers into the mosque compound under the protection of Israeli forces.

The ministry described the incursion as a serious provocation against Muslims worldwide and warned against actions that escalate tensions at the holy site.

Riyadh reiterated its “categorical rejection” of provocative actions, incitement, violence and extremist practices carried out by Israeli officials against Palestinians and Islamic and Christian holy sites in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The ministry also urged the international community to take responsibility and act to halt such violations, which it said contravene international law and international humanitarian law.

Earlier Sunday, the Palestinian Jerusalem Governorate said Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir entered Al-Aqsa Mosque under heavy police protection and carried out Jewish religious rituals in its eastern area.

In a separate statement, the governorate said 992 settlers entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound through the Moroccan Gate during morning and evening entry periods.

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