JERUSALEM, Sunday, April 15, 2022 (WAFA) – The European Union called today for all parties to respect the status quo at the holy sites in occupied Jerusalem, hours after an aggressive Israeli raid into Al-Aqsa Mosque compound resulted in the injury of more than 120 worshipers.

“The European Union follows with deep concern the latest upsurge across the occupied West Bank, including in East Jerusalem and the clashes at Al Aqsa <osque on Friday morning,” said Peter Stano, spokesman for EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Joseph Borrell.

“Violence needs to stop immediately. Further civilian casualties must be prevented as a priority. The status quo of the holy sites must be fully respected,” he added. “The EU reiterates the call on all sides to engage in de-escalatory efforts.”

At least 120 Palestinians were injured at dawn on Friday when the Israeli police stormed the courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The wounded Palestinians were injured by rubber-coated bullets, tear gas, or beaten by the Israeli police who also fired a barrage of stun grenades.

Over the past weeks, tensions have risen across the West Bank as the Israeli occupation authorities carried out arrests and military raids in many areas, especially in the north of the territory.

The West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is an occupied territory under international law, thus making all Israeli Jewish settlements there illegal.

M.N