AMMAN
Jordan on Monday denounced Israel's closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque's gates and the denial of entry to Muslim worshippers and religious students.
"Continued Israeli violations and the allowing of [Jewish] extremists into the Al-Aqsa Mosque will foster violence and extremism throughout the region," Jordanian Information Minister Mohamed Momani told Anadolu Agency.
Israeli police kept a number of the mosque's gates closed for the second day in a row and banned the entry of worshippers less than 50 years old, according to Sheikh Azzam al-Khatib, director-general of Islamic endowments and Al-Aqsa affairs in Al-Quds (occupied East Jerusalem).
The move coincides with the Jewish Purim holidays, held every year on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar (late winter/early spring).
During the celebrations, Israel allows Jews to visit the mosque compound to practice religious rituals.
Momani warned Israel against creating "new realities" inside the mosque compound in contravention of international law.
He called on the international community – including the U.N., the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation – to pressure Israel to halt its violations against Islamic holy sites and to honor its obligations as an occupying power.
By Saddam al-Yahiya
englishnews@aa.com.tr
