In a joint statement, the groups accused the israeli government of spreading "lies" to alleviate international pressure. They claim that the reality on the ground contradicts these assertions, highlighting continued restrictions on entry for Palestinians in the West Bank and ongoing Israeli security measures within the Old City.
The statement criticizes the use of iron barriers, arrests of young Palestinians, and the exclusion of tens of thousands of Palestinians who have never been able to visit Jerusalem due to Israeli restrictions. They further point to the expulsion of religious figures, activists, and employees of the Jordanian Waqf, the body responsible for the custodianship of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The presence of Israeli surveillance equipment within the mosque compound is also cited as evidence of restricted freedom of worship. The statement concludes by urging Palestinians to visit Al-Aqsa and resist Israeli narratives, while calling for Muslims to pray there regularly and not solely on Fridays.
The statement raises concerns about Israeli intentions, suggesting that the restrictions aim to limit Muslim presence at Al-Aqsa and leave it vulnerable to potential attacks, particularly during upcoming Jewish holidays coinciding with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (ILKHA)