Al-Aqsa Intifada anniversary marked by Palestinian factions and Saudi condemnation

Palestinian factions, including Hamas and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, marked the 26th anniversary of the Al-Aqsa Intifada on September 28. The movement, which began in 2000 following Ariel Sharon’s visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, is being commemorated amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and tensions in the West Bank and Jerusalem.

Hamas issued statements calling for unified Palestinian strategy and urged Arab, Muslim, and international supporters to take political, diplomatic, and media action to protect holy sites. The group characterized current Israeli actions as an “unprecedented escalation” involving attempts to Judaize the Al-Aqsa Mosque and advance annexation plans.

Separately, Saudi Arabia condemned the actions of Israeli officials and extremist settlers who entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The condemnation follows reports that Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was among those who entered the site, accompanied by settlers performing rituals under police protection. Saudi Arabia reiterated its rejection of Israeli expansionist attempts and emphasized the right of Palestinians to an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.