Israeli attempts to desecrate Al Aqsa threat to regional stability, peace — PM

AMMAN —  Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Bisher Al Khasawneh highlighted the government's action to implement the Royal directives to continue regional and international efforts and communications Jordan has initiated to address all the illegal Israeli measures aimed to alter Al Aqsa Mosque/Al Haram Al Sharif’s historical and legal status quo.

The Cabinet on Sunday discussed the Israeli escalation at Al Aqsa Mosque/Al Haram Al Sharif and the Kingdom's efforts to put an end to this escalation, safeguard the worshippers, and maintain the historical and legal status quo at Jerusalem and its holy sites. 

The Israeli escalation and extremists' attempts to desecrate Al Aqsa could threaten regional security, stability and peace if not addressed, Khasawneh said, stressing that dealing with these measures is a responsibility that Jordan devotes all of its efforts to, as part of the Hashemite Custodianship, adding it is also a regional, Islamic, Arab and global responsibility.

Highlighting the Foreign Ministry's push to de-escalate the situation, he referred to the direct contact with the Palestinian leadership and with various international bodies, including the Israeli side, the US, and several European countries.

The premier also held Israel, as an occupying force, accountable for what is happening in Jerusalem. 

“It must respect the historical and legal status quo and abide by the international law that regulates the duties of an occupying power,” he added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi   reviewed the Kingdom's efforts to prevent any illegal measures for escalation purposes, notably targeting the historical and legal status quo at Al Aqsa Mosque.