KUANTAN: Pahang Pas has condemned the security measures put in place by Israel after it reopened the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem following a deadly shootout on July 21 which forced its closure for two days.
Pahang Pas deputy commissioner Andansura Rabu said the installation of metal detectors and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at the religious site is seen as an attempt by Israel to take full control over the mosque.
He said although the security devices were removed on Thursday following protests, their initial installation was certainly unacceptable and a threat to Muslims carrying out their religious obligations peacefully.
"The Al-Aqsa Mosque belongs to all Muslims and we are saddened that our brothers and sisters are being treated in such a manner.
"We strongly condemn such an act, and it is sad that neighbouring Muslim countries have failed to take the lead in protesting against Israel," he told reporters during a gathering organised by Pahang Pas’s youth movement outside the Al-Fatah mosque here today.
Some 500 people braved the scorching heat to hear Andansura’s and Pahang Pas Youth chief Mohd Hazmi Dibok’s speeches on the plight of Palestinians, before setting mock Israeli flags on fire.
Hazmi said protesting is a way for Muslims around the world to show support for Palestinians and to stop tensions in the Occupied Territories from escalating.
"The people in Palestine have undergone a lot of hardship and the latest incident, which forced the closure of the mosque, is (a crime) against humanity.
"Pas is calling for a united condemnation of Israel's actions, and Pas’s Youth movements from around the country are holding similar gatherings today. We will also provide talks to ensure Muslims here are well-informed about the situation in Israel and the hardship faced by Muslims there," Hazmi added.