Jordan Denounces Israeli Police Attacks on Christians in Jerusalem

(MENAFN) The government of Jordan has strongly criticized Israeli police actions during Christian Holy Fire celebrations in occupied Jerusalem, describing the measures as unlawful and a violation of the city’s historical and legal arrangements, according to reports.

Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued what it called an “absolute rejection and condemnation” of reported restrictions affecting Christian worshippers during the religious observance. It argued that such actions interfere with the ability of both Christians and Muslims to freely practice their religious rites at their holy sites.

The statement emphasized that existing historical and legal understandings governing Jerusalem’s religious sites must be respected, and it rejected any claim of sovereignty over the city by Israel.

Officials also called on the international community to take responsibility in addressing what they described as ongoing violations affecting Islamic and Christian holy places. They further reiterated support for Palestinian statehood based on a two-state framework, calling for the establishment of an independent and sovereign state.

The remarks came as Israeli authorities imposed heightened security restrictions across Jerusalem during the Holy Fire celebrations ahead of Orthodox Easter, particularly in and around the Old City and Damascus Gate area.

Church authorities had previously reported closures affecting major religious sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, while access to other key religious locations such as Al-Aqsa Mosque was also restricted for a period beginning in late February before being reopened in recent days.

The situation reflects continued tensions in Jerusalem surrounding access to holy sites, security measures, and competing political claims over the city’s status.

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