EU Calls for Preserving East Jerusalem’s Special StatusBrussels, 27 Feb (ONA) —- The European Union (EU) reiterated its
commitment to preserving the special status of East Jerusalem,
warning of the consequences of any attempt to change the current
situation, amid heightened Israeli measures restricting access to
Al-Aqsa Mosque during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.

The EU explained in a statement on its website, issued by the EU
Heads of Mission in Jerusalem and Ramallah, that any unilateral
attempt to alter the status quo would have significant destabilizing
effects and should be avoided, emphasizing that “worshipers need to
be able to access their holy sites freely.”
The statement also noted that the EU Heads of Mission visited
Al-Aqsa compound and met with the Islamic Waqf in Jerusalem “as part
of regular exchanges dedicated to the religious and cultural
diversity of Jerusalem and its Old City.”
They were briefed by the Palestinian Waqf on the latest
developments and concerns in the area, including violations affecting
the status quo. The Waqf expressed its concerns about the
restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa compound during Ramadan.

The European Union stated that its position on Jerusalem remains
unchanged, asserting that “the special status and character of
Jerusalem and its Old City, the inviolability of its sacred spaces
and the viability of all its communities must be preserved and
respected by all.”
The EU and its Member States have also engaged with the heads of
Churches on challenges affecting their position.—- Ends/Khalid