Malaysia Urges UN, OIC to Protect Al-Aqsa Mosque Amid Leader's Detention

Malaysia has called on the international community, particularly the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to act decisively to protect the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), stressed the need to ensure the right to worship, the safety of religious leaders, and the mosque's status are preserved in line with international law.

The minister's statement came after Israeli forces detained Sheikh Muhammad Hussein, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque, on July 10. Although Sheikh Muhammad was later released, the Prime Minister's Department for Religious Affairs strongly condemned the arrest. The incident is seen as a violation of religious freedom and a desecration of the holy site.

"The action also undermines the sanctity of the Al-Aqsa Mosque," Dr. Zulkifli stated. He emphasized that the safety of religious leaders and the status of Al-Aqsa must be adequately protected. Malaysia affirmed its continued support for all efforts toward a just peace, defending the rights of Palestinians, and ending their oppression.