Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli minister’s remarks on building synagogue at Al-Aqsa mosque

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has condemned an Israeli minister’s remarks where he called to build a synagogue at Al-Aqsa mosque, the Kingdom’s foreign ministry said early Tuesday.

Israel’s hard-line Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir repeated a call for Jews to be allowed to pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, drawing sharp criticism for inflaming tensions as ceasefire negotiators seek a deal to halt fighting in Gaza. 

Asked during an interview if he would build a synagogue on the site if he could, Ben-Gvir replied “Yes, Yes.” 

The Kingdom affirmed its categorical rejection of these extremist and provocative statements, and the ongoing provocations of Muslims around the world.

Saudi Arabia “reiterated the need to respect the historical and legal status of Al-Aqsa Mosque,” the statement read.

The Kingdom renewed its call on the international community to assume its responsibilities and put an end to the Palestinian humanitarian catastrophe, and activate serious mechanisms to hold Israeli officials accountable for the ongoing violations of international laws, norms and resolutions.