Status quo at Jerusalem's holiest site under threat as Israeli nationalists flout rules
Summary
Some Israeli nationalists are challenging long-standing rules that limit religious activities at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa mosque compound, a site sacred to both Muslims and Jews. They want to build a new Jewish temple there, which breaks agreements meant to keep peace. Officials from Israel and the U.S. have reportedly discussed changes, but Israeli leaders say the current arrangements remain.Key Facts
- The al-Aqsa mosque compound, also called the Temple Mount by Jews, is a very important religious site for Muslims and Jews.
- For about 1,400 years, only Muslims have been allowed to pray inside the al-Aqsa mosque. Non-Muslims can visit but not pray there.
- A Jordanian Islamic group called the Waqf manages the site, following an agreement called the Status Quo.
- Some Israeli nationalists, including Moshe Feiglin, pray at the site despite rules forbidding Jewish prayer there.
- Reports suggest Israel may want to change the site's status to a "multi-faith centre" allowing more Jewish prayer and control, but Israeli officials deny this.
- Control of East Jerusalem, including al-Aqsa, was taken by Israel in the 1967 Middle East War; most countries do not recognize this annexation.
- Islamic leaders warn that changing the current arrangements could cause serious conflict.
- U.S. officials have unclear or conflicting statements about any plans to change the Status Quo at al-Aqsa.
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