Arab League Council Reaffirms Rejection Of Changes To Ibrahimi Mosque Status In Hebron

The Arab League Council has firmly opposed any attempts to change the status of the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron's Old City. This includes efforts to limit access, silence prayers, or alter its features. Israeli forces are held accountable for these violations. The council emphasised the mosque's status as an Islamic endowment managed by the Palestinian Ministry of Islamic Endowments.

The council highlighted that Israeli plans to Judaise the site are part of broader control efforts. It urged the international community to uphold resolutions supporting Palestinian sovereignty over the mosque and its surroundings. The statement followed an extraordinary session chaired by Jordan, requested by Palestine and supported by member states.

Ambassador Hossam Zaki, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, attended the meeting with permanent ambassadors from member states. The council reiterated Israel's lack of sovereignty over Palestinian land and heritage sites. It warned that illegal Israeli plans aim to alter the site's identity and undermine Palestinian heritage.

The council reaffirmed a 2017 UNESCO decision listing the Ibrahimi Mosque and Hebron's Old City as World Heritage in Danger. Current developments violate this ruling, threatening religious sanctities and regional stability. The council called for compliance with a 1997 agreement between the Palestine Liberation Organisation and Israel regarding mosque administration.

The council condemned Israeli practices aimed at controlling large parts of Hebron and altering historical realities. It urged the UN Secretary-General to protect civilians in Hebron effectively. An urgent monitoring mission was recommended to assess developments per previous World Heritage Committee decisions.

Renewed diplomatic efforts were encouraged to document Israeli violations in Hebron, especially at the Ibrahimi Mosque. The council also called on UN Special Rapporteurs on freedom of religion and human rights in occupied Palestinian territories to record these violations.

Diplomatic Efforts

The Arab League Council requested its missions and councils of Arab ambassadors to communicate this resolution's contents to host capitals. This aims to ensure widespread awareness and action against attempts to alter Hebron's historical and legal status.

In conclusion, maintaining Palestinian sovereignty over the Ibrahimi Mosque is crucial for preserving its cultural significance. The international community must act decisively against any actions threatening this heritage site’s integrity.

With inputs from WAM