Kuala lumpur: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday criticized Israel over the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque and called for its immediate reopening.

According to Anadolu Agency, Anwar expressed his concerns in a statement highlighting that as Muslims around the world prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque have been kept closed by Israeli occupation forces. He emphasized that the faithful are being denied their right to worship at Islam's third holiest site during the final days of Ramadan and into Eid. Anwar stated that Israel's actions lack legitimate basis in law, morality, or any sincere conception of human dignity.

He described the closure as a violation of international law and fundamental human dignity, warning that the ongoing restrictions indicate growing impunity. Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in occupied East Jerusalem, is of significant religious importance to Muslims globally. Anwar urged for the immediate reopening of the site and called on governments with influence over Israel to take concrete steps beyond diplomatic statements to ensure worshippers' access.

He also expressed solidarity with Palestinians who are marking Eid under restrictions, praising their resilience and assuring Malaysia's continued support. Anwar's statement came amid the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran on February 28, with only limited access granted to worshippers at the Ibrahimi Mosque in the occupied West Bank.