Israeli actions 'paving way for total control' over Al-Aqsa, says Hamas

Hamas' political bureau member Khaled Meshaal has expressed concern that Israeli actions around Al-Aqsa Mosque are setting the stage for complete control over the site. Meshaal claims the recent measures, such as the 40-day closure of the mosque, the division of the area to allow easier access for extremist Jewish groups, and the emptying of key facilities within the courtyard, are all contributing to this goal.

He describes Al-Aqsa as standing at a "crossroads" and calls for steps to safeguard the site, including a "strategy of resistance and jihad". Meshaal also urges Arab and Muslim-majority countries to support Palestine, and encourages Palestinians to maintain a "steadfast presence" at the mosque. These remarks follow the week prior when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toured tunnels beneath Al-Aqsa Mosque, as hundreds of Israeli settlers conducted a raid on the revered Jerusalem holy site.