22 July 2017•Update: 23 July 2017
BRUSSELS
EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini released a statement on Saturday, urging Israel to look for a solution to ensure the safety of everyone in the region.
"We encourage Israel and Jordan to work together to find solutions that ensure security for all, respect the sanctity of the holy site and uphold the status quo," the statement said.
The statement emphasized the importance of acting responsibly for all political, religious and community leaders advising to avoid steps and explanations that would further increase tension in the region.
"Three Palestinians were killed during violent clashes with Israeli security forces yesterday. These incidents must be fully investigated," said the statement which also condemned the killing of three Israeli citizens in West Bank.
"Continued cooperation between Israel and the Palestinian Authority is crucially important to prevent further violence and loss of life," the statement added.
Anger has spilled over across the West Bank since last week when Israel shut the Al-Aqsa Mosque, revered by both Muslims and Jews, who call it Temple Mount, following a deadly shootout.
The mosque was reopened after a two-day closure, with Israel installing metal detectors at the mosque gates, which Palestinians say aim to change the status quo -- a delicate balance of prayer and visiting rights.
Sacred to Muslims, Jews, and Christians, Jerusalem is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which for Muslims represents the world's third-holiest site.
Reporting by Serife Cetin; Writing by Fatma Bulbul
