Jerusalem:Ankara: The Turkish Foreign Ministry has condemned the actions of extremist Israeli groups at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which took place during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. The ministry expressed deep concern over these events and called for respect and preservation of the mosque’s sanctity.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that the repeated actions by these groups could exacerbate tensions in the region. The ministry urged Israeli authorities to prevent such provocations and protect the status of the holy sites.

During the events, approximately 1,500 extremist settlers were reported to have entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, performing religious rituals. This move has been criticized by various parties for disrespecting the site’s religious significance to Muslims.

The statement from the Turkish Foreign Ministry also highlighted that the incursions corresponded with the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, which was observed from September 26 to October 2. The M
inistry reiterated its call for international efforts to maintain peace and stability in the area.

The ministry further referenced historical agreements that regard East Jerusalem, including the Al-Aqsa Mosque, as occupied territories since 1967, with an annexation that has not been recognized internationally.