The Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations on Tuesday demanded that all Israeli security measures at a Jerusalem holy site be removed after Israel lifted some obstructions that had triggered violent protests.
“De-escalation is urgent,” Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian representative, told a UN Security Council debate on the Middle East.
Mansour appealed for a “continuation of all efforts to restore the historic status quo at Al-Aqsa mosque compound” and said “this requires the lifting of all measures in violation of the status quo.”
Five Palestinians have been killed in clashes sparked by the new Israeli security measures at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound.
The compound houses the revered Al-Aqsa mosque, Islam’s third holiest site, and Dome of the Rock.
Israeli security forces take down security barriers near Lions' Gate, a main entrance to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem. (AFP)
Earlier Tuesday, Israel removed metal detectors and cameras from the entrances to the compound and said it would carry out “security inspections with advanced technologies and other means.”
The metal detectors were put in place following an attack on July 14 that killed two Israeli police officers.
Israel maintained that the equipment was needed to prevent weapons smuggling into the compound.
UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov welcomed the decision to remove the metal detectors and said Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas will convene a meeting later Tuesday to discuss the developments.
Mladenov on Monday told the council that a solution to the crisis must be found before Friday prayers to avoid an escalation of the violence.
“All parties must refrain from provocative actions, show restraint, and bring a conclusive end to this crisis in the next few days,” Mladenov said on Tuesday.
Also Read
-
Al-Aqsa officials refuse entry, Israel closes doors
Israel froze the entry of Palestinians to the Al-Aqsa Mosque because the Noble Sanctuary officials refused entry as long as metal detectors and ... Middle East -
Jerusalem: Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam injured in clashes
14 Palestinians were wounded in clashes between worshipers and the Israeli forces after the evening prayers in Bab al-Asbat gate on Tuesday. One is ... Middle East -
Mahmoud Abbas freezes Israel contact over al-Aqsa dispute
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said on Friday he was freezing contacts with Israel over new security measures at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, ... Middle East -
Israel’s attacks continue and Al-Aqsa Mosque without prayer for the tenth day in a row
For the 10th day in a row, the Palestinians have not been able to hold prayers inside Al Aqsa mosque. In protest of the Israeli occupation forces ... Middle East
