Pakistan on Wednesday called on Arab and muslim countries to take collective steps to protect Jerusalem’s holy sites, oppose Israeli settlement activities and support the implementation of the Gaza peace plan amid rising concerns over the future of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and the continuing conflict in Palestinian territories.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar made the statement during a ministerial meeting on Jerusalem held in Amman, Jordan. The meeting was organized by the Jordanian government as concerns increased over developments at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, one of the most important religious sites for Muslims.
Jordan has repeatedly warned that any attempt to change the existing arrangements governing the site could increase tensions throughout the region.
Speaking at the meeting, Dar said Israel does not have authority over occupied East Jerusalem or its Islamic and Christian holy places. He said any actions aimed at changing the identity or legal status of these sites have no validity under international law.
Dar also expressed Pakistan’s support for Jordan’s role as the custodian of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. He said Islamabad recognizes the Jerusalem Endowment and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs Department, working under Jordan’s Ministry of Awqaf, as the official body responsible for managing the site.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar says Israel’s actions in Jerusalem are provoking the sentiments of millions of Muslims, reiterating Pakistan’s strong condemnation of Israeli provocations. Addressing the Ministerial Meeting on Jerusalem in Amman,… pic.twitter.com/ZQXsFYRCqS
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) August 5, 2026
The foreign minister said the entire 144 dunam (35 acre) Al-Aqsa Mosque compound is dedicated exclusively to Muslim worship. He added that any effort to change its religious or historical character should be rejected.
Dar also criticized Israeli settlement expansion and violence in Palestinian areas, particularly in the occupied West Bank. He said the growth of settlements, creation of new outposts and increasing violence against Palestinians violate international humanitarian law.
Discussing the situation in Gaza, Dar said humanitarian conditions remain extremely difficult despite some progress following the ceasefire and peace efforts. He said millions of Palestinians continue to face serious challenges, including food shortages and limited access to basic needs.
