King warns against harming Al-Aqsa Mosque

Amman
10 April 2005

His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday warned against attempts by Israeli extremist organizations to enter Al Haram Al Sharif, saying any aggression on Muslims' first Qiblah and any tampering with the Arabs' and Muslims' sacred site will undermine security and stability in the region.



In a statement to Jordan News Agency, Petra, the King called on the Israeli government to shoulder its responsibilities and prevent Jewish extremists from reaching Al Aqsa Mosque which operates under Jordan's custodianship.



His Majesty said Jordan will pursue contacts with the Israeli government to avoid any such incident.



King Abdullah pointed out that the Jordanian-Israeli peace treaty stipulates that the Jewish state respect the Kingdom's special role in protecting and preserving Jerusalem's holy places.



King Abdullah emphasized the importance of the world community shouldering its responsibility towards Al Aqsa and recognizing the dangers of such provocative actions which could destroy the entire peace process.