The OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) has expressed deep concern over the recent developments in Al-Aqsa Mosque, which have come about as a result of the absence of international intervention, according to an official statement issued by the commission during its sixth regular session.

IPHRC said these developments have come in the aftermath of excessive attacks on Al-Aqsa by extremist Israeli settlers and groups that have gained momentum in recent months, under Israeli police surveillance and protection.

The complacency of the Israeli government regarding such acts is a clear indication that it condones the attempts aimed at altering the Islamic nature of the holy site, a matter that merely serves to incite more extremism, tension and violence.

“The British Commission of Inquiry, founded in 1929 under the British mandate of Historic Palestine, establishes that there is no evidence that Solomon’s Temple existed in this area, and that Al-Aqsa Mosque solely belongs to those of the Muslim faith. Further excavations could not prove otherwise.

“Any attempt to change the nature of the holy site would not only run counter to historic facts, but would also represent a threat to the hopes of a peaceful resolution of the political conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, adding wider dimensions to the conflict,” the IPHRC statement said.

Meanwhile, the commission called on the occupying power to uphold its obligation to ensure the sanctity of and free access to the Christian and Muslim holy sites in occupied East Jerusalem at all times.

Attempts to enforce a division and impose restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa based on age or gender are clear violations of the principle of non-discrimination.

The commission reminded of the obligation of all states under International Human Rights Law to prohibit any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence.