Waqf rejects Israeli court order to shutter Temple Mount's Gate of Mercy
JERUSALEM (AP) — The Islamic authority that oversees Muslim holy sites in Jerusalem rejected Tuesday an Israeli court order to close a contested religious area that has ignited tension between Palestinian worshipers and Israeli police in recent weeks.
Sheikh Abdelazeem Salhab, chairman of the Waqf Council appointed under agreement with Israel by neighboring Jordan, said that the area in Jerusalem’s Old City beside the Gate of Mercy would “remain open for Muslims to pray,” despite Israel’s ultimatum to close the site by next Monday.
Salhab’s refusal could set up a showdown with Israeli authorities on the sensitive esplanade where moves by either side can quickly inflame regional tensions.
Salhab demanded that Israel permit the Waqf to renovate the site and revoke orders banning dozens of Waqf officials, guards and worshipers from the compound.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/waqf-rejects-israeli-court-order-to-shutter-temple-mounts-gate-of-mercy/
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