ISNA Concerned About Restrictions to Prayer Services and Access to Masjid Al Aqsa

(Plainfield, IN 7/21/17) The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) is concerned by the escalating tensions between Palestinians and the Israeli police which led to the latter imposing unprecedented restrictions on worship at Masjid al Aqsa. The restrictions have included the cancellation of Friday prayers last week due to an unprecedented closure of the compound. The additional security check-point and metal detectors installed at the reopening of the compound are in violation of agreements with the waqf, Islamic trust, governing Masjid al Aqsa. Masjid al Aqsa, located in Jerusalem, is a holy site in Islam. Some historians believe it was first built by Prophet Adam and the burial site of Prophet Sulaiman who rebuilt the masjid after it was destroyed. In the Qur’an, Allah also tells us that it is the place where Prophet Muhammad (P) journeyed to heaven.

Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless,- in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things). [Chapter 17, Verse 1]

ISNA leadership strongly encourages masajid and community leaders to discuss the religious significance of Masjid al Aqsa in their Friday sermons and other community gatherings. May Allah protect the people of Palestine and grant them freedom from decades long oppression. The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) is the largest and oldest Islamic umbrella organization in North America. Its mission is to foster the development of the Muslim community, interfaith relations, civic engagement, and better understanding of Islam. – END – CONTACT: Faryal M. Khatri, ISNA Communications Coordinator, [email protected]