India expressed its concern over clashes at the holy places of Jerusalem and appealed to all the parties to stop provocation and incitement which could further worsen the situation, reported news agency ANI.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on the Middle East, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN R Ravindra said, “We’re deeply concerned by the series of incidents at the holy places of Jerusalem during the ongoing holy month of Ramzan. The historic status quo of the holy places of Jerusalem must be respected and upheld.”
He added that any such act which violated the sanctity of holy places must be condemned.
“All acts of obstruction, vandalism, decretion, which violate the sanctity of holy places, be it in Jerusalem, Nablus or elsewhere, must be unequivocally condemned. We recognize efforts made by Israel, Jordan, Palestinean authority & other countries to avert escalation” Ravindra said.
“It is unfortunate that despite these efforts the on-ground situation has once again deteriorated. We appeal to all parties to stop the provocations & incitement which could further worsen the situation. We extend our support to all steps aimed at restoring calm,” he further said.
India’s statement at the UNSC comes amid escalating tensions over clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian worshippers at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in East Jerusalem. Clashes between the two sides broke out at the Temple Mount on April 15 — second friday during Islamic holy month of Ramzan, the first night of Jewish week-long Passover holiday and Good Friday.
