by In a strong and unequivocal statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan has condemned the recent storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by Israeli ministers and settlers. This incident, widely criticized by the international community, has once again spotlighted the ongoing tensions in occupied East Jerusalem and raised global concerns about religious freedom, human rights, and the fragile status quo of one of the world’s most contested holy sites.
Al-Aqsa: A Sacred and Sensitive Site
Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, is the third holiest site in Islam. Revered by Muslims around the world, the mosque compound—also known as Haram al-Sharif—is also significant to Jews, who refer to it as the Temple Mount. Over the years, it has become a flashpoint of violence and religious tension, particularly when Israeli settlers or government officials visit the site under military protection.
The latest incident involved far-right Israeli ministers, accompanied by groups of settlers, entering the mosque compound under heavy police presence. Such actions are viewed by Palestinians and much of the Muslim world as provocations and a violation of longstanding agreements meant to preserve the religious and political balance in Jerusalem.
PM Sharif’s Condemnation
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a strong condemnation, labeling the actions as a blatant violation of international norms and an affront to the religious sentiments of Muslims globally. He emphasized that the repeated incursions into Al-Aqsa not only undermine peace efforts in the region but also fan the flames of religious intolerance.
“These provocative actions are not just an attack on a religious site—they are an attack on the dignity, rights, and identity of the Palestinian people,” PM Sharif stated. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and called on the international community, especially the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to take immediate and concrete steps to halt such violations.
Regional and Global Repercussions
PM Sharif’s statement reflects the broader sentiment across the Muslim world, where Al-Aqsa is seen not just as a Palestinian concern but as a collective responsibility. Countries like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Jordan have also voiced their disapproval, warning that continued violations at the site could trigger wider unrest.
The storming of Al-Aqsa by Israeli officials is particularly controversial given the sensitive political context. It comes amid ongoing Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, frequent military raids in Palestinian territories, and increasing far-right rhetoric within the Israeli political landscape. Such actions are viewed as part of a broader campaign to alter the demographic and religious character of Jerusalem—a city claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians as their capital.
Call for Action from the Muslim World
In his remarks, PM Sharif called for unity among Muslim-majority nations and urged leaders to move beyond statements and pursue collective diplomatic and political measures. He emphasized the need for a united front in international forums and proposed a joint resolution at the United Nations to condemn the violation of Islamic holy sites.
“The time for words is over. The Muslim Ummah must come together and protect the sanctity of Al-Aqsa,” he declared.
Pakistan has historically maintained a strong position on the issue of Palestine and continues to advocate for a two-state solution, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a sovereign Palestinian state. PM Sharif reiterated this stance and emphasized that peace in the Middle East is impossible without addressing the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.
Role of International Community
The Prime Minister also called on the broader international community, including Western powers, to play a more proactive role in de-escalating tensions. He noted that failure to hold Israel accountable for its actions not only weakens the international legal system but also encourages further aggression.
Human rights organizations and United Nations agencies have repeatedly documented violations of international law in the occupied territories, including the use of excessive force, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on religious freedom. Yet, political inertia and geopolitical considerations have often shielded Israel from meaningful consequences.
PM Sharif’s statement is a reminder that silence and inaction are no longer acceptable in the face of such egregious provocations.
Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Peace
The storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli ministers and settlers is a deeply troubling event that threatens not just the peace of Jerusalem, but the stability of the entire region. PM Shehbaz Sharif’s condemnation is both timely and necessary, reflecting Pakistan’s commitment to justice, religious freedom, and the rights of oppressed communities.
As tensions continue to mount, the world must heed this warning. Preserving the sanctity of holy sites, respecting international law, and upholding human dignity must be the foundation of any effort to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East. The future of millions—and the soul of Jerusalem—depends on it.
