Associated Press, Khaleej Times, 10 February 2007
Abdullah said he rejects Israel’s “justifications” for the work. Israel has said it is simply repairing the ramp and has accused “extremists” of provoking anger over the work.
“Jordan will continue its contacts in the Arab, Muslim and international arenas to ensure Israel stops these acts, which only widen the circle of violence and put obstacles in the way of peace process,” Petra quoted Abdullah as saying.
The compound is home to the golden-capped Dome of the Rock shrine and Al Aqsa mosque and is believed to be the site where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. Jews venerate the compound as the site of their biblical temples, and one of it’s outer walls — known as the Western Wall — is the holiest site in Judaism.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit expressed his country’s “deep alarm over the tragic events that took place today in the Al Aqsa mosque between the Israeli occupation troops and the Palestinian people,” the Egyptian state news agency MENA reported.
Aboul Gheit demanded Israel to stop the renovation work, which “will lead to nothing but escalation.” [More]
Dozens injured in demonstrations against Israeli destruction around Al Aqsa Mosque
Maisa Abu Ghazaleh, Palestine News Network, 10 February 2007
Israeli forces did not wait until Friday prayers were entirely over before storming the Al Aqsa Mosque and using batons, bullets and gas against worshipers. Massive demonstrations were planned for after Friday prayers in protest of the Israeli destruction project around the Muslim holy site. [More]
The US and Israel dictate to the new Palestinian government before it is formed
Palestine News Network, 9 February 2007
The new Palestinian government has not yet been established but already the Israelis and Americans are making demands and imposing conditions. Official Israeli sources said on Friday that they are studying the details of the Fateh and Hamas agreement. [More]