Saudi Arabia and Kuwait issued formal condemnations Monday of the continued storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli occupation officials and settlers, who entered the site under protection of occupation forces.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the kingdom rejects what it described as provocative practices against the Al-Aqsa Mosque and violations of its religious and historical sanctity. The ministry said these actions breach international law and constitute provocation toward Muslims worldwide.
Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs similarly condemned what it called the persistent storming of the mosque by Israeli occupation authorities and settlers escorted by occupation forces. Kuwait stressed that the actions flagrantly violate international law and international humanitarian law, and said the assaults on the Holy Mosque provoke strong reactions among Muslims globally.
Both countries also rejected Israeli statements regarding the annexation of areas in southern Lebanon and territories in the Gaza Strip, characterizing such claims as expansionist attempts.
Saudi Arabia reiterated its position that the Palestinian people have the right to establish an independent state on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. Kuwait similarly reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, emphasizing the creation of an independent Palestinian state.
According to Palestinian sources, settlers entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound Sunday through the Bab al-Magharba gate, conducted provocative tours, and performed what were described as Talmudic rituals. The entry occurred under heightened security by Israeli occupation police, reportedly justified by what authorities called the Sukkot holiday.
Israeli occupation authorities imposed a comprehensive closure on the West Bank and sealed border crossings from Sunday through the following Saturday, citing the same holiday observance. Palestinian sources reported that occupation forces also tightened military procedures around Ramallah and Al-Bireh on Monday morning, closing several roads and entry points.
Palestinian news agency WAFA stated that Israeli authorities use Jewish holidays as occasions to impose restrictions on Palestinians, coinciding with what it described as widespread violations including sieges, intensified military procedures at checkpoints, obstruction of access to holy sites, and ongoing settler harassment.