Arab and Turkish-led countries condemn Israeli worship restrictions in Jerusalem

Middle Eastern outlets describe the Israeli death penalty bill and worship restrictions as discriminatory steps targeting Palestinians and undermining religious freedom in Jerusalem. They hold the Israeli government responsible for raising the risk of wider unrest by tightening control over access to Al-Aqsa Mosque and Christian sites during key religious periods. They expect stronger diplomatic coordination among Arab and Muslim states and warn that further restrictions or passage of the bill could trigger protests and clashes.

• •Arab and Muslim ministers say the Israeli death penalty bill singles out Palestinians and violates international law.
• •Middle Eastern coverage states that Israeli police and military checkpoints are preventing many Palestinians from reaching Al-Aqsa Mosque.
• •Reports from the region assert that Christian processions in Jerusalem face new limits imposed by Israeli authorities.
• •Arab governments argue that Israel, as an occupying power in East Jerusalem, is responsible for protecting access to all holy sites.
• •Commentary from the region predicts that if the death penalty bill advances, it will fuel anger across the Arab and Muslim world.