By : JD News Editor
Jordan Daily – The European Union Representative, in coordination with EU heads of Mission in Jerusalem and Ramallah, issued a statement on Wednesday highlighting the importance of preserving the Status Quo in Jerusalem’s holy sites and addressing rising concerns among religious communities ahead of key religious festivals.
The statement seen by Jordan Daily, follows a visit by EU envoys to the Al Aqsa compound, where officials met with the Jerusalem Waqf to discuss access restrictions and recent developments at the site, particularly in light of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. Concerns were raised about potential violations of the longstanding Status Quo, which regulates the management of Jerusalem’s religious sites.
The statement also emphasized ongoing discussions between the EU and Christian leaders in Jerusalem. Church representatives raised alarms over increasing financial pressures stemming from the imposition of retroactive municipal taxes on their properties by Israeli authorities, a move they argue contradicts past agreements and endangers their ability to provide charity and education.
The EU reiterated its call for respect towards Jerusalem’s sacred places, particularly as Ramadan, Easter, and Passover approach.
The statement underscored the EU’s support for Jordan’s special role in maintaining the Status Quo through the Jerusalem Waqf and warned that any unilateral attempts to alter these arrangements could lead to significant destabilization.
The EU’s position on Jerusalem remains unchanged, the statement concluded, urging all parties to preserve the city’s unique status and protect the viability of its religious communities.
