RAMALLAH/AMMAN, Sunday, March 17, 2019 (WAFA) – The Palestinian and Jordanian foreign ministries rejected in two separate statements today Israeli interference in the affairs and status of Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites.

Both ministries denounced an Israeli court ruling closing Bab al-Rahma prayer area, which is located inside the Muslim holy compound in Jerusalem’s Old City, and stressed that Israel has no jurisdiction over Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The Palestinian foreign ministry said in its statement that the court ruling was a prelude for Israel to take over the entire Muslim holy site, as called for by Jewish fanatic groups that seek to destroy the Mosque and build a Jewish temple on its location.

It strongly rejected any Israeli interference in the affairs of the Mosque.

A similar statement was made by Jordan’s foreign ministry, which also stressed that East Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque are occupied territories according to international law and they cannot be subjected to the Israeli judicial system.

It said Bab al-Rahma is part of Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and that the Islamic Waqf department in Jerusalem is the only party in charge of the Mosque affairs.

It called for canceling the court decision, holding Israel responsible for any repercussions for its decision and the safety of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

M.K.