Hebron: The director of the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron warned Tuesday that displaying the Star of David atop the site represents a 'dangerous precedent' amid escalating Israeli measures in the occupied West Bank. Speaking to Anadolu, Mutaz Abu Sneineh said Israeli authorities illuminated the Jewish symbol on the roof of the mosque, calling it part of accelerated steps to impose a new reality at the site.
According to Anadolu Agency, Abu Sneineh reported that the mosque has seen 'repeated and systematic violations at an increasing pace,' including raising Israeli flags and placing Jewish religious symbols, such as the Star of David, which is lit at night. He expressed concerns that these actions reflect attempts to Judaize the site and turn it into a synagogue. Abu Sneineh further emphasized that these measures are carried out without regard for the sanctity of the site or the sentiments of Muslims, linking them to broader Israeli violations including allowing occupiers to enter and tamper with facilities.
Among the most serious violations, he cited 'encroachment on the shrine of Prophet Jacob,' where the covering was replaced with one bearing Hebrew and biblical inscriptions. While Israeli authorities claim these steps are part of renovation work, Abu Sneineh argued that they aim to change the religious and historical character of the site, pointing to ongoing painting and maintenance work in parts of the compound.
There was no immediate comment from Israeli authorities on the remarks. The Ibrahimi Mosque, located in Hebron's Old City, has long been subject to tight restrictions and a division of access between Muslims and Jews, with Palestinians calling for preserving its historical and legal status. Israel divided the site in 1994, allocating 63% for Jews and 37% for Muslims after an occupier attack killed 29 Palestinian worshippers.
Violence has escalated across the West Bank since October 2023, with at least 1,150 Palestinians killed, about 11,750 injured and nearly 22,000 detained. In a landmark opinion in July 2024, the International Court of Justice declared Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory illegal and called for the evacuation of all settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
