On Al-Aqsa Mosque Attempted Arson Commemoration, OIC Reiterates Importance of Safeguarding Holy Sites in Occupied Jerusalem

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the legal and historical status of the Islamic and Christian holy sites in the occupied city of Jerusalem, including Al-Aqsa Mosque. In a statement issued on August 21, 2024, OIC emphasized the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque as a place of worship solely for Muslims. The day marks the painful anniversary of the attempted arson at Al-Aqsa Mosque amidst escalating Israeli violations, including incursions by Israeli officials and extremist settlers, desecration, gate closures, brutal attacks on worshipers, and restriction of access, acts that blatantly violate the sanctity of holy places, the freedom of worship, and international law. OIC reaffirmed that Jerusalem, the capital of the State of Palestine, is an integral part of the Palestinian territory occupied in 1967. It rejects any measures or decisions aimed at altering its geographic or demographic character, and any attempt to impose the alleged Israeli sovereignty over t he city and its sacred places. Such actions are deemed illegal under international law and relevant UN resolutions. On this dark anniversary, OIC called on the international community, especially the UN Security Council, to fulfill its responsibilities and stop the ongoing aggression in Gaza, end the Israeli colonial occupation and settlements, and enable Palestinians to regain their legitimate rights, including the right of return and the right to establish an independent state based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, according to the relevant UN resolutions. OIC expressed appreciation for the steadfastness of the Palestinians in defending their land and sacred places, and reiterated its unwavering support for their legitimate national rights. The organization called for increased support for the city of Jerusalem and its people. Source: Saudi Press Agency