Israeli authorities in the Occupied West Bank are reportedly planning to seize control of the historic Ibrahimi Mosque, a sacred site for Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. The Palestinian-run Hebron Municipality is facing the threat of losing administrative responsibilities over the mosque to the religious council of the nearby Kiryat Arba settlement, an action deemed illegal under international law.
The Civil Administration, the Israeli governing body in the Occupied West Bank, initially announced plans to transfer authority over the mosque to the Kiryat Arba council for roofing work on the Jewish side of the structure. This decision follows the 1994 massacre of Palestinians by an Israeli extremist at the site, leading to heightened restrictions for Muslim worshippers.
Located in Hebron’s Old City, the Ibrahimi Mosque, also known as the Tomb of the Patriarchs, is a revered pilgrimage site believed to hold the remains of the prophet Abraham and his family members. The site’s history dates back 4,000 years, with various religious and cultural influences shaping its architecture over time.
The devastating 1994 massacre by Baruch Goldstein, an Israeli settler, resulted in the division of the mosque into separate areas for Jewish and Muslim worshippers. However, ongoing intrusions and restrictions imposed by Israeli settlers and forces have continued to disrupt the peaceful worship at the mosque, including bans on prayers and closures of entrances for Muslim worshippers.
The recent decision to seize control over the mosque by Lieutenant Colonel Ayman Bisan has sparked international outrage and calls for intervention by UNESCO and the international community. Palestinian officials have condemned the move as a violation of international law and a threat to the site’s historical and religious significance.
As tensions escalate between Palestinian residents and Israeli settlers in Hebron, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned of the potential consequences of this action. With support from countries like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, efforts are underway to prevent the seizure of the Ibrahimi Mosque and preserve its cultural and religious heritage.
