Status of Jerusalem holy site in doubt

A clause in the UAE-Bahrain accords with Israel may open the door for Jews to pray at the Al-Aqsa Compound in violation of the status quo, according to Israeli analysts


Clause states: “all Muslims who come in peace may visit and pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and Jerusalem’s other holy sites should remain open for peaceful worshippers of all faiths”

Israel defines Al-Aqsa as mosque structure alone, but Muslims define it as entire esplanade. Wording of clause raises fears that Jewish prayers will be allowed inside compound


AL-AQSA COMPOUND: Also known by Muslims as Al-Haram al-Sharif and by Jews as Temple Mount. Under long-standing agreement non-Muslims can visit but cannot pray at site

Western, or Wailing Wall: Retaining wall of mount on which Jewish temple once stood

Dome of the Rock: Muslims believe this is where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven

Al-Aqsa mosque: Islam’s third-holiest site after Al-Masjid al-Haram mosque in Mecca and Al-Masjid An-Nabawi in Medina, Saudi Arabia


Sources: Terrestrial Jerusalem, Reuters, Middle East Eye 
Picture: Getty Images 
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