Al-Aqsa Mosque Preacher Calls Visiting Holy Site a Religious Duty

Sheikh Ikrima Sabri, the preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque and head of the Supreme Islamic Council in Jerusalem, stated that Israeli policies aim to impose dominance over the Al-Aqsa Mosque. He emphasized that traveling to the mosque is a religious obligation that should not be taken lightly, warning against repeated attempts to alter the status quo at the Haram al-Sharif, which he described as a direct threat to its religious and spiritual significance.

Sabri explained that ongoing efforts to control the Al-Aqsa Mosque constitute a blatant violation of its sanctity. He asserted that the mosque is not merely a local issue but a matter of faith for all Muslims, making its defense a perpetual religious duty. He added that traveling to Al-Aqsa reflects Muslims' spiritual and doctrinal connection to it, and that continued visits send a clear message rejecting any attempts to change its identity or sanctity.

He stressed that Muslims' duty extends beyond verbal defense to active presence and continuous support, whether through visiting the mosque or through political and religious stances affirming its importance. Sabri declared that Al-Aqsa will remain a symbol of Islamic unity and that any attempts to impose a new reality will face broad popular and religious rejection.

Sabri also called on religious institutions and Islamic bodies to support the steadfastness of Jerusalemites, noting that their presence at Al-Aqsa is the first line of defense against these policies. He concluded by stating, "Traveling to Al-Aqsa Mosque is a religious duty, and we will not allow any dominance over it. Al-Aqsa will remain a holy place for all Muslims and a symbol of steadfastness and adherence to truth."