Top Arab, Muslim diplomats launch plan to protect Jerusalem religious sites
Arab and Muslim foreign ministers have established a permanent mechanism to document Israeli violations at religious sites in occupied East Jerusalem. The initiative includes a media platform to broadcast alleged violations and will involve representatives from multiple countries including Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
A coalition of Arab and Muslim nations has moved to create formal structures for monitoring and publicizing what they characterize as Israeli violations affecting religious sites in East Jerusalem. The agreement, formalized through a joint declaration at a ministerial gathering in Jordan, reflects growing concern among participating states that such violations pose risks to regional stability and international peace.
The mechanism will operate through multiple channels, including a dedicated media platform designed to document incidents and reach international audiences and organizations. Participants in the initiative encompassed members of the Arab ministerial committee focused on Jerusalem affairs, the Arab League's top official, and delegations from Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
The declaration articulates concerns regarding what signatories view as systematic Israeli policies affecting Jerusalem's demographic composition and religious character. Specific grievances cited include settlement expansion, land annexation, property confiscation, and restrictions on Palestinian movement and access to services. Ministers expressed particular alarm regarding the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex, alleging repeated incursions, worshipper restrictions, and excavation activities that they contend threaten its Islamic identity and historical status.
Christian communities also feature prominently in the declaration's concerns. Signatories documented restrictions on access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, interference in ecclesiastical governance, and alleged attacks targeting clergy and religious property. The statement characterizes these actions as part of a broader pattern of pressure on Christian institutions and assets.
The coalition intends to escalate the matter through the United Nations system, planning to convene a joint ministerial session during the General Assembly's leadership week in September to advance their agenda.
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