Ramallah – April 19 2025 — The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) issued a strong warning of plans by Israeli settlers to demolish Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem – one of Islam’s holiest sites.
On Saturday, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement alleging that extremist settler groups openly advocated for the destruction of mosques and construction of third Jewish temples – something which would cause widespread outrage and potentially spark regional crises.
“The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs holds Israel fully responsible for any consequences caused by settler threats against Al-Aqsa Mosque,” read a statement by PMFA. Any harm done would constitute an attack against Muslims worldwide and their religious freedom and heritage.
Palestinian officials reported that calls for its demolition have intensified over recent weeks through right-wing settler media channels and social media campaigns, particularly prior to Jewish religious holidays. Furthermore, Palestinian officials accused Israeli authorities of turning a blind eye to settler activities while permitting more incursions into Al-Aqsa compound under police protection.
Israeli officials have not directly responded to these allegations; however, the Israeli government has stated in the past that they maintain the status quo at Temple Mount where Al-Aqsa Mosque resides and reject any acts that incite violence.
Al-Aqsa Mosque has long been at the epicenter of tensions and unrest, as attempts by Israeli settlers to enter its compound, along with an overwhelming Israeli police presence, have caused clashes with Palestinian worshippers and resulted in widespread condemnation from throughout Arab and Muslim societies.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is appealing to the international community – particularly the UN, Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation – to intervene immediately and prevent what it describes as “an imminent disaster”.
“Silence in response to these threats isn’t neutrality — it is complicity,” according to the ministry, encouraging world leaders to take diplomatic and legal steps in order to protect Al-Aqsa and hold Israel accountable.
As tensions escalate in Jerusalem, fears rise that its volatile situation could escalate into wider conflict if swift steps are not taken to defuse it.