Dar Rejects Israeli Claims Over East Jerusalem Sites

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has sharply criticised recent incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque, saying Israel has no sovereignty over occupied East Jerusalem or its holy sites.

Speaking at a ministerial conference in Amman, Jordan, Dar said the actions of Israel, which he described as the occupying power in occupied Palestine, were endangering the sanctity and historical character of Jerusalem’s holy places. He said the developments undermined international law, disregarded UN resolutions and weakened prospects for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace.

Pakistan condemns Al-Aqsa incursions

According to remarks reported by Dawn, Dar said Pakistan condemned in the strongest terms the continued incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque by extremist Israeli settlers. He said the actions were being encouraged by senior Israeli ministers and carried out under the protection of occupying forces.

Dar said deliberate attempts to alter the religious and historical status of Jerusalem were provoking the sentiments of Muslims around the world. He warned that such steps could escalate tensions beyond the immediate dispute and risk pulling followers of different religions into a wider conflict.

He added that Pakistan could not accept such developments and reiterated that Israeli actions and provocations must stop.

East Jerusalem status remains disputed

The foreign minister stressed that there should be no ambiguity on the legal position of East Jerusalem. He said Israel has no sovereignty over occupied East Jerusalem or its Islamic and Christian holy sites, and that any measures aimed at changing its character or status are null and void and without legal effect.

Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Jordan’s historic and special role in Jerusalem. He recognised the Jerusalem Endowment and Al-Aqsa Affairs Department, which is affiliated with the Jordanian authorities responsible for the holy site’s administration.

The comments come amid continued international concern over access, administration and security at Jerusalem’s most sensitive religious locations. Pakistan has consistently backed the Palestinian position on East Jerusalem and the broader question of occupied Palestinian territory.

Broader diplomatic message

Dar’s remarks in Amman placed Pakistan’s position within a wider call for restraint and respect for international law. His comments underscored Islamabad’s view that developments at Al-Aqsa Mosque have implications far beyond the site itself, affecting regional stability and interfaith relations.

The foreign minister did not announce any new policy measures in the remarks reported by Dawn, but he used the forum to restate Pakistan’s long-standing position on Jerusalem and its holy sites.