The UAE has condemned the recent Israeli violations in Jerusalem, including incitement by Israeli settler organizations calling for the bombing of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.
In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs also strongly denounced Israel’s violations against Christians in Jerusalem.
Those violations happened during the Holy Saturday (Sabt al-Nour).
They included blocking the access to churches and physical assaults.
Israel Violations Against Christians in Jerusalem
As per a widely spread footage, Israeli police were assaulting worshippers and participants in the “Holy Saturday” celebrations.
The Apostolic Nuncio (Vatican ambassador) was also banned from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
While Christians coming from the West Bank couldn’t also participate in prayers and religious celebrations in Jerusalem.
Christian churches in the cities of Bethlehem, Beit Jala, and Beit Sahour celebrated Easter Sunday today.
But signs of joy were almost entirely absent from the occasion due to the ongoing brutal Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip.
Despite holding masses and prayers in churches, the atmosphere was one of sorrow and solidarity with the people of Gaza.
Religious rituals were conducted in a solemn spiritual environment, carrying messages of protest and prayers for peace.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs: “Protecting Islamic and Christian holy Sites is a Must.”
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned of the serious consequences of such repressive practices, which risk further tension and escalation in the region.
It reiterated the UAE’s firm position towards ensuring the full protection of Islamic and Christian holy sites.
And also to stop the serious and provocative violations at Al-Haram Al-Sharif.
Furthermore, the Ministry emphasized the importance of respecting Jordan’s role in overseeing the holy sites and religious endowments.
In accordance with international law and the established historical status quo.
It stressed that no one must interfere in the authority and jurisdiction of Jerusalem Endowments Department.
The UAE Rejects All Practices that Violate International Legitimacy.
The Ministry held Israeli authorities responsible for stopping the escalation.
Confirming that the UAE is against any actions that may increase tension and instability in the region.
The UAE has also reaffirmed its firm rejection of all practices that violate international legitimacy and could lead to further escalation.
Lastly, the Ministry called on the international community to strengthen all regional and international efforts.
In order to create a serious political horizon that can contribute to achieve comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.
Fulfilling the aspirations of the Palestinian people to establish an independent, sovereign state.
Israel’s Violations in Jerusalem are Increasing
In recent years, the city of Jerusalem has witnessed a significant increase in Israeli restrictions on religious freedoms.
Those restrictions were for both Muslims and Christians, particularly during religious holidays.
Human rights organizations accuse the Israeli government of pursuing policies aimed at undermining the Palestinian presence in Jerusalem. Those policies include:
- Restricting religious practices
- Demolishing homes
- Preventing citizens from the West Bank and Gaza from accessing places of worship
These violations have intensified since the events of October 7, 2023, and the outbreak of the war on Gaza.
