Jerusalem: Jordan's government expressed its disapproval on Monday regarding Israel's decision to close Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in occupied East Jerusalem, labeling it a 'crime against religious freedom.' Government spokesperson Mohammad al-Momani articulated this stance, emphasizing the significance of international law and historical agreements in maintaining access to these sacred sites.
According to Anadolu Agency, al-Momani highlighted that the restriction on worshippers constitutes a 'flagrant violation' of both international law and the accepted historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem. He warned that such measures could exacerbate regional tensions and incite hate speech. Al-Momani asserted that Israel, as an occupying power, lacks legal sovereignty over Jerusalem or its religious sites, underscoring that the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf, under Jordan's jurisdiction, is the only entity with legal authority over Al-Aqsa Mosque.
He further stated that any attempts by Israel to politicize these holy sites or impede religious practices would meet with strong opposition from Jordan. This opposition is deeply rooted in Jordan's custodianship and historical role, which are supported by the Hashemite custodianship's legitimacy and the established historical rights of the Jerusalemites.
Al-Momani also pointed out that the Jerusalem Waqf Department, linked to the Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf, Islamic Affairs, and Holy Places, is the official custodian of Al-Aqsa Mosque and associated properties in East Jerusalem. This custodianship is recognized by international law, acknowledging Jordan as the last local authority over these sites before Israel's occupation. Jordan's right to oversee religious affairs in Jerusalem was retained under the 1994 Wadi Araba Peace Treaty with Israel and further reaffirmed by a 2013 agreement between King Abdullah II of Jordan and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Earlier on Monday, Israeli police announced a policy of allowing 'limited prayer' at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre while keeping Al-Aqsa Mosque closed, without detailing the permitted number of worshippers. This decision has faced international criticism from several countries and the European Union, particularly after senior Christian clergy were barred from entering the church for Palm Sunday celebrations.
Christian groups are preparing for Easter celebrations, which are set for April 5 in the Western calendar and April 12 in the Eastern calendar. Israel has maintained the closure of both sites since February 28, citing security concerns linked to regional tensions involving the ongoing Israel-US conflict with Iran and Tehran's reactions.
Israel's Home Front Command announced that restrictions on gatherings would be extended until April 4. The closures have been condemned by Arab and Muslim nations, who are urging Israel to reopen Al-Aqsa Mosque to worshippers.
Al-Aqsa Mosque is considered the third-holiest site in Islam, while Jews refer to the area as Temple Mount, claiming it was the site of two ancient Jewish temples. Palestinians argue that Israel is escalating efforts to change the character of occupied East Jerusalem and assert control over its Islamic and Christian holy sites. They view East Jerusalem as the capital of a prospective Palestinian state, a stance supported by international resolutions that do not recognize Israel's annexation of the city.