Saudi Arabia slams Israeli minister’s incursion into Al-Aqsa Mosque

Saudi Arabia has condemned the incursion into Al Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem, by Israeli National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir and a group of settlers.

In a statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry denounced the Israeli “systematic practices” as “a flagrant infringement of all international norms and covenants” that provoke the feelings of Muslims worldwide.

The ministry held Israel “fully accountable for the repercussions of such continued violations,” while reiterating its call on the international community to shoulder its responsibility to end the Israeli escalation.

It said necessary protection for civilians should be provided and all efforts should be made to end the conflict.

Ben-Gvir and the settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem earlier on Thursday to mark the Jewish holiday of Tisha B’Av.

Tisha B’Av is a day of mourning and repentance for Jews to reflect on the destruction of the First and Second Temples.

Xinhua/NAN