US voices ‘concern’ about violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque
WASHINGTON- The US has voiced ‘concern’ over violence at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem and called for “all sides” to lower tensions.
“We call on all sides to exercise restraint, avoid provocative actions and rhetoric, and preserve the historic status quo on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. “We urge Palestinian and Israeli officials to work cooperatively to lower tensions and ensure the safety of everyone.”
Price said the agency is closely monitoring developments and will remain in contact with top Israeli and Palestinian officials to seek a way to deescalate tensions.
Tensions have been running high across Palestinian territories since the beginning of April amid intensified and relentless Israeli raids to arrest “wanted” Palestinians.
Israeli security forces stormed the Al Aqsa Mosque after morning prayers on Friday in the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan. The violence that ensued left 153 Palestinian worshippers injured. 400 other worshippers were arrested by Israeli security forces from the mosque’s courtyards.
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