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| Recent violence and the escalating political tension in Jerusalem has been a serious concern for IPU. ©REUTERS/Ammar Awad |
IPU is calling for calm and restraint as the Organization welcomes Israel’s re-opening of the al-Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount holy site in Jerusalem today. Recent violence and the escalating political tension following the site’s closure has been a serious concern for IPU.
“We welcome the decision to re-open and once again allow Muslim worshippers access to the al-Aqsa mosque. It is an important acknowledgement of the right to worship and to access holy sites,” said IPU President Saber Chowdhury. “Protecting such rights is critical for constructive relations between Israelis and Palestinians.”
IPU is urging the Israeli Knesset to ensure authorities do more to protect and respect such rights concerning the holy site in Jerusalem in the interests of peace. The Organization is also encouraging the Knesset and its members to engage in constructive dialogue with the Palestinian Legislative Council to find ways for both peoples to co-exist peacefully.
IPU and its Committee on Middle East Questions renewed their support and assistance for such dialogue, which could pave the way for future, successful peace negotiations.
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