The Turkish government has condemned the incursion into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem by groups of Israeli settlers. Ankara said the action could further increase tensions in the region and hinder efforts to achieve peace between Israel and Palestine.
Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in an official statement on Sunday, described the incursion into the holy site as an action that could escalate tensions. Türkiye also called on the international community to take steps to prevent similar incidents.
The statement came after several media outlets reported that groups of Israeli settlers had entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. They were reportedly seen moving around the complex and performing Jewish religious rituals.
Türkiye said the settlers carried out the activities while under the protection of Israeli forces. The Turkish government subsequently issued a strong condemnation of the incident.
Ankara also criticized the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which Türkiye said could further increase tensions in the region. In its statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that actions and provocations around holy sites could undermine efforts to establish peace and regional stability.
Türkiye again called on the international community to take action against activities it considers violations of the historical and legal status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. According to Ankara, protecting holy sites is an important part of maintaining stability in the region.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque is located in Jerusalem’s Old City and is recognized as one of the most important holy sites in Islam. The compound also holds significant religious importance for Jews and remains one of the most sensitive points in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The status and administration of the compound have long been contentious issues in relations between Israel and Palestine. Any changes to conditions at the site have the potential to trigger broader tensions.
Türkiye’s statement adds to the diplomatic reactions to the latest developments surrounding the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Ankara has also consistently called for the protection of holy sites and a diplomatic resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Amid the continued sensitivity of the regional situation, Türkiye said respecting the historical status of holy sites is necessary to prevent further escalation. The Turkish government also emphasized the importance of international efforts to maintain stability and create conditions conducive to the peace process.
Fajar Santoso is a lifestyle and travel writer at RakyatPost who focuses on culture, tourism, modern living, and destination storytelling across Asia and beyond. With a passion for discovering unique experiences and local traditions, he creates engaging content that inspires readers to explore new places, lifestyles, and perspectives. His writing blends informative journalism with creative storytelling to deliver meaningful and reader-friendly travel and lifestyle coverage.
