Arab and Muslim foreign ministers have agreed to establish a permanent mechanism to monitor and document alleged Israeli violations in occupied East Jerusalem and at Islamic and Christian holy sites. The decision was announced following a ministerial meeting held in Jordan, where participants discussed recent developments in Jerusalem and the occupied Palestinian territories.
The new mechanism is intended to systematically record incidents affecting religious sites, cultural heritage and the status of East Jerusalem. Officials said the initiative will collect evidence, prepare reports and support diplomatic efforts aimed at protecting the city’s historical and religious significance.
The ministers expressed concern over what they described as repeated violations at holy sites, including restrictions on worship, changes to the historical status quo, and actions affecting Palestinian residents. They called on the international community to take greater responsibility in safeguarding religious and cultural heritage in Jerusalem.
The meeting also reaffirmed support for preserving the legal and historical status of Islamic and Christian holy sites. Participating countries stressed the importance of respecting international law and relevant United Nations resolutions concerning the status of Jerusalem.
Officials said the documentation mechanism will coordinate with relevant regional and international organizations to ensure that reported incidents are properly recorded and presented in diplomatic forums. They believe the initiative will strengthen efforts to raise international awareness and encourage accountability.
The announcement comes amid continued tensions in Jerusalem and the wider region, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to reduce tensions and support a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
