Israel to Demolish Al-Omari Mosque, near Jerusalem

maannews.net – February 3, 2008

Mufti condemns Israeli decision to demolish historic mosque near Jerusalem

The Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Sheikh Muhammad Hussein (right) has condemned a decision by Israeli authorities to demolish the Al-Omari mosque in the village of Umm Tuba near Jerusalem under the pretext that the building had been built without a license on Sunday.

Sheikh Hussein told Ma'an that the mosque was built more than 700 years ago, and it was last restored in 1963. It is the only mosque in Umm Tuba.

The Mufti claimed that Israeli authorities have been attempting to wipe out historic Islamic sites in Palestine which is violation of all religious values and international treaties.

He warned of the repercussions and called on the United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) which is charged with protecting human cultural heritage around the world, and other international organizations to prevent the demolition of the mosque.
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