Doha: On the Palestinian question, Al Raya's editorial, titled "Incursions: A systematic policy to impose a new reality at Al-Aqsa," highlighted the repeated incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, describing them as a systematic policy aimed at altering the historical, legal, and religious status quo in occupied Jerusalem. The editorial emphasized that these actions are not isolated incidents but rather a dangerous sign of an attempt to impose a new reality by force at one of Islam's holiest sites.
According to Qatar News Agency, the editorial reported that more than 2,000 settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque in a single day, with the protection of Israeli occupation forces and participation from government and Knesset members. The newspaper argued that this event transcended a mere security incident and amounted to a political message with extremely dangerous implications.
The editorial further noted the increased seriousness of these practices due to tighter military measures at the gates of the mosque, which prevent many Palestinian worshippers from entering. Al Raya stressed that these restrictions deepen discrimination against freedom of worship and risk escalating tensions. It reiterated that free access to holy sites is a right guaranteed under international conventions, and preserving the historical and legal status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque has been reaffirmed by numerous international resolutions.
Al Raya asserted that the events in Jerusalem are linked to ongoing attempts to reshape the reality on the ground through a policy of fait accompli. The repeated incursions, performance of religious rituals within the mosque's courtyards, and the expansion of these practices raise concerns about the entrenchment of gradual changes in the administration of Al-Aqsa Mosque. These actions are rejected by Palestinians and the Islamic world and are warned against by international parties as they threaten de-escalation and stability prospects.
The editorial concluded by urging the international community to go beyond issuing traditional statements of condemnation. It called for serious action to ensure respect for international law, protect holy sites, preserve the historical and legal status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque, and prevent any unilateral measures that could inflame the conflict or undermine chances for peace.