Briefing journalists at UN Headquarters, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, said Secretary-General António Guterres had been "shocked and appalled by the images" he had seen of the violence and beating by Israeli security forces inside the al-Qibli mosque.

"At a time of the calendar which is holy to Jews, Christians, and Muslims, this should be a time for peace and not violence. Places of worship should only be used for peaceful religious observances."

UN Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland issued a statement saying he was appalled by the images of violence inside the mosque, which is located in the Old City of Jerusalem and considered the third holiest site in Islam.

“I am disturbed by the apparent beating of Palestinians by Israeli security forces and a large number of arrests. I also strongly reject the stockpiling and use of fireworks and rocks by Palestinians inside the mosque,” he said.

At dawn on Wednesday morning, dozens of Muslim worshipers were injured, and hundreds were arrested during violent Israeli police raids on the Al-Qibli prayer building at the Aqsa Mosque. (ILKHA)