JERUSALEM /PNN /

European Union Heads of Mission in Jerusalem and Ramallah visited the Al-Aqsa compound on February 25, meeting with representatives of the Jerusalem Waqf to discuss concerns over the site’s religious and cultural status. The visit, part of ongoing diplomatic engagements, highlighted tensions over access restrictions and alleged violations of the longstanding Status Quo at the holy site.

According to the Waqf, recent developments at the Al-Aqsa compound—including limitations on worshippers’ access, particularly ahead of the holy month of Ramadan—have raised concerns about potential escalations. The EU delegation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting religious freedoms and maintaining the established agreements governing the site.

EU representatives also met with Christian leaders to address challenges facing Jerusalem’s Christian communities. Church officials expressed growing alarm over financial pressures, particularly the imposition of retroactive municipal taxation by Israeli authorities on church-owned properties, regardless of their use. 

This taxation, which contradicts historical agreements, has raised fears that it could hinder the ability of Christian institutions to continue their religious, charitable, and educational activities. Of particular concern is the initiation of foreclosure proceedings against properties belonging to the Armenian Patriarchate.

With major religious observances approaching—Ramadan, Easter, and Passover—the EU delegation underscored the importance of upholding the Status Quo at Jerusalem’s holy sites. Officials stressed that worshippers of all faiths must be granted unrestricted access to their places of worship, calling on all parties to avoid any unilateral actions that could inflame tensions.

The European Union reiterated its unchanged position on Jerusalem, emphasizing the city’s special status and the need to preserve its diverse religious and cultural heritage. The EU also reaffirmed Jordan’s special custodial role over the city’s Islamic holy sites, supporting the implementation of this role through the Jerusalem Waqf.

"Any unilateral attempt to alter the Status Quo would have deeply destabilizing effects and must be avoided," the EU delegation stated.