The Palestinian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs condemned the Israeli authorities for banning the call to dawn prayer at the Ibrahimi Mosque for the eighth consecutive day. This action is seen as part of a broader strategy to suppress Islamic rituals within the mosque, which has a complex history of division and conflict. The ministry's statement highlighted the increasing violations and the need for international intervention to protect the mosque and affirm Palestinian sovereignty.
The Ibrahimi Mosque, located in Hebron, has been a focal point of tension between Israeli settlers and Palestinian worshippers. Since a massacre in 1994, the mosque has been divided, with a significant portion allocated for Jewish use. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has exacerbated tensions in the West Bank, leading to increased violence and casualties among Palestinians, with reports indicating over 716 deaths and thousands injured since the escalation began on October 7.
The situation at the Ibrahimi Mosque reflects the larger context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly in light of the recent military actions in Gaza, which have drawn international condemnation. The Palestinian Ministry's appeal for global intervention underscores the urgency of the situation as they seek to protect their religious sites and rights amid escalating violence.