Sheikh Ekrima Sabri was released on condition of deportation from the Old City of Jerusalem
The Israeli occupation authorities released Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, the preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque and head of the Supreme Islamic Council, on the condition that he is banned from entering the Old City of Jerusalem, citing "disturbing public order." This occurred after he called for reopening Al-Aqsa Mosque and resuming prayers there following its closure a week earlier, which coincided with the outbreak of the US-Israeli war on Iran.
Israeli intelligence summoned Sheikh Sabri for questioning at 'Room 4' detention center in the Russian Compound (al-Maskobyeh) in West Jerusalem. He was asked about his statements warning of a dangerous plot against Al-Aqsa Mosque, highlighting the importance of preserving its sanctity and defending Muslims' right to pray there.
After his release, Sheikh Sabri emphasized his firm opposition to closing Al-Aqsa Mosque, stating that "it is impermissible to disrupt prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque, nor is it religiously permissible to close it." His defense team reported that the investigation resulted in a decision to ban him from the Old City of Jerusalem. They clarified that the investigation mainly focused on accusations from the occupation authorities, claiming that he "disturbed public order" by demanding the reopening of Al-Aqsa Mosque and resuming prayers there after its closure.
The lawyers also clarified that Sheikh Sabri remains under continuous movement restrictions, including a ban on entering Al-Aqsa Mosque for more than a year, along with experiencing harassment and public death threats from settlers.
In this context, the Supreme Islamic Council condemned the Israeli occupation forces' interrogation of Sheikh Sabri, affirming that these actions would not lessen his stature or significance.
The Council highlighted that Sheikh Sabri is an Islamic icon and that his treatment is an assault on scholars and religious leaders across the Muslim world.
The Council urged the Islamic countries' governments to support Sheikh Sabri and take action to prevent the violations against him. It also cautioned about potential threats to his safety and health, explicitly holding the Israeli government entirely responsible.
The defense team highlighted the gravity of the incitement against Sheikh Sabri, underscoring his symbolic and religious significance, and affirmed that he will not yield to threats or pressure.
