Israel's aggressive takeover of Al-Aqsa Mosque denounced as an 'extremist action' by UAE authorities
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned the visit of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem, describing it as a provocative escalation and an unacceptable act of extremism.
In a statement, the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the need to protect Al-Aqsa Mosque, halt provocative violations, and hold Israeli officials accountable, particularly ministers involved in the incident. The ministry called on the Israeli government to assume its responsibilities, condemn these provocative practices, and hold all those involved accountable.
The UAE also stressed the role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in overseeing the endowments and managing the affairs of Al-Aqsa Mosque. The ministry reiterated the UAE's support for Jordan's custodianship of the holy site and the need to respect its historical and legal protections.
The visit by Ben-Gvir, a far-right Israeli minister, challenges a decades-old status quo arrangement that allows Jewish visits but prohibits prayer at the site. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia and Jordan, which view it as a serious provocation that fuels conflict and violates international law and humanitarian norms.
The visit has also heightened regional tensions amid continuing Israeli military actions in Gaza and a humanitarian crisis there. Calls for accountability highlight growing international concerns about extremist actions by Israeli officials escalating violence and conflict risks.
The UAE's condemnation reflects its stance against Israeli actions that provoke Palestinian communities and threaten peace prospects in the region. However, it has not been reported to have any direct involvement in Netanyahu's potential plans to seize Gaza, or in the Gaza aid airdrop operation with Jordan and four other countries. Similarly, the UAE has not issued a statement condemning the Knesset's approval of 'Israeli sovereignty' over the West Bank.
This campaign not only targets the Palestinian people but also threatens social peace, leading to an escalation of tensions. It is crucial for all parties involved to respect the historical and legal status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque and work towards building a more peaceful and stable region.
References:
[1] Al Jazeera. (2025, August 4). UAE condemns Israeli minister's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/4/uae-condemns-israeli-ministers-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque
[2] Reuters. (2025, August 3). Israel's Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa Mosque, Palestinians protest. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israels-ben-gvir-visits-al-aqsa-mosque-palestinians-protest-2025-08-03/
[3] Middle East Monitor. (2025, August 4). UAE condemns storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli minister. Retrieved from https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20250804-uae-condemns-storming-of-al-aqsa-mosque-by-israeli-minister/
[4] Arab News. (2025, August 4). Saudi Arabia, Jordan condemn Israeli minister's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque. Retrieved from https://www.arabnews.com/node/1918231/middle-east
[5] The Guardian. (2025, August 4). Israel's Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa Mosque, sparking Palestinian protests. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/04/israels-ben-gvir-visits-al-aqsa-mosque-sparking-palestinian-protests
- The UAE's Ministry of Finance could allocate funds to aid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, providing much-needed support and ensuring peace and stability in the region.
- In the realm of international business, it is crucial for companies to respect the historical and legal status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque, avoiding actions that could provoke conflict or violate humanitarian norms.
- The escalating tensions in 'war-and-conflicts' areas, such as the Gaza conflict, have significant implications for finance and business sectors, due to the potential risks and instability they create. In the political arena, it is essential for world leaders to work towards achieving a peaceful resolution, ensuring stability and prosperity for all parties involved.
