Palestinian Presidency asserts Al-Aqsa Mosque status

The Palestinian Presidency issued a statement asserting that the Al-Aqsa Mosque is exclusively a place of worship for Muslims. The announcement, released via the WAFA news agency, emphasizes that the entire 144-dunam area must maintain its historical and legal status as a symbol of the Arab and Islamic identity of Jerusalem.

The Presidency rejected all attempts to alter the identity or status of the site. It specifically warned against actions by Israeli groups and individuals, citing raids, Talmudic rituals, the raising of flags, excavation works, and restrictions placed on worshippers as ongoing violations. The statement also noted threats to other Islamic and Christian holy sites.

The declaration coincides with the 57th anniversary of the 1969 Al-Aqsa fire. That incident, caused by Australian citizen Michael Dennis Rohan, resulted in significant damage to the Qibli Mosque and historical artifacts, including a pulpit from the era of Saladin. Following the fire, Rohan was released by an Israeli court due to claims of mental instability and subsequently returned to Australia.