Egypt condemns settlers’ storming of Al-Aqsa, raising of Israeli flag in its courtyards

CAIRO – 22 April 2026: Egypt condemned the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by settlers under the protection of Israeli police, and their raising of the Israeli flag within its courtyards.

In a statement by the foreign ministry on Tuesday, Egypt described these acts as a flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law, representing an unacceptable provocation to the feelings of Muslims worldwide

Egypt said the incident also constitutes a dangerous escalation that could inflame tensions and undermine efforts aimed at achieving de-escalation and restoring stability.

More than 150 settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque on Tuesday under heavy protection from Israeli forces, raising the Israeli flag and performing provocative Talmudic rituals inside, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.

Also, dozens of settlers entered the mosque’s courtyards on Wednesday and performed epic prostration near Bab Al-Rahma and the Dome of the Rock, according to the Jerusalem Governorate.

Settlers perform epic prostration at Al-Aqsa Mosque. WAFA

In the statement, Egypt reaffirmed full rejection of any attempts to alter the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its Islamic and Christian holy sites.

Cairo called for the international community to assume its responsibilities in halting repeated Israeli violations and putting an end to practices that could heighten tensions and weaken prospects for calm.

Egypt also reiterated its firm support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the right to establish an independent state along the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital, thereby achieving a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian cause.