Saudi Arabia today condemned a statement by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir calling for a synagogue to be built in the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem.
In a statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry categorically rejected these extremist and provocative statements.
The ministry also stressed “the need to respect the historical and legal status of Al-Aqsa Mosque,” and renewed its call on the international community to assume its responsibilities and put an end to the Palestinian humanitarian catastrophe.
Ben-Gvir claimed yesterday that Jews have the right to pray at Al-Aqsa Mosque, saying he would build a synagogue at the Muslims holy site.
It was the first time the Israeli minister has spoken so openly about building a synagogue inside Al-Aqsa Mosque. However, he has repeatedly called in recent months for allowing Jewish prayers at the site.
His call came amid repeated incursions into the complex by illegal Israeli settlers under police protection.
Al-Aqsa Mosque is considered the third holiest site in Islam. Jews refer to the area as the Temple Mount, believing it to be the location of two ancient Jewish temples.
Israel occupied East Jerusalem, where Al-Aqsa is located, during the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. In 1980, Israel annexed the entire city, a move that has never been recognised by the international community.
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