Regional ministers call mosque shutdown illegal and demand access for worshippers
Eight Islamic and Arab nations have condemned Israel’s closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, calling the move a violation of international law and a provocation against Muslim worshippers.
Countries Condemn Al-Aqsa Restrictions
Eight Islamic and Arab countries have issued a joint condemnation of Israel’s decision to keep Al-Aqsa Mosque closed during Ramadan.
Foreign ministers from Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar described the restrictions as illegal and unjustified.
Ramadan Prayers Disrupted
The closure comes during Ramadan, when tens of thousands of Palestinian Muslims typically gather for Friday prayers at the mosque.
Al-Aqsa Mosque is considered the third holiest site in Islam, making the restrictions particularly sensitive during the holy month.
Security Concerns Behind Closure
Israeli authorities closed all holy sites in the Old City of east Jerusalem citing security concerns.
The decision followed Israeli and US airstrikes against Iran that have escalated into a wider regional conflict.
Access to Old City Severely Limited
Since the start of the conflict, Israeli authorities have restricted entry into the Old City.
Only residents and shop owners have been allowed access, while other visitors and worshippers have been barred from entering the area.
Dispute Over Jerusalem’s Status
The ministers also emphasised that Israel has no sovereignty over occupied east Jerusalem or its religious sites.
They urged Israeli authorities to immediately lift the restrictions and restore access to places of worship.
The closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan has heightened tensions across the Middle East, with several Muslim-majority countries calling for unrestricted access to the historic religious site amid the ongoing regional conflict.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , Middle East Eye (2026)
Keywords: Al Aqsa Mosque Closure Israel, Ramadan Access Jerusalem Mosque, Muslim Countries Condemn Israel, Jerusalem Holy Sites Closure, Middle East Religious Tensions
