The United Arab Emirates has called in Israel’s Ambassador, Yossi Shelley, to formally express its disapproval over what it refers to as “provocations in Jerusalem.” This protest comes in response to violent incidents and anti-Arab chants that occurred during the celebrations of Jerusalem Day earlier in the week.
UAE officials have issued a strong denunciation concerning what they termed “shameful and offensive violations against our Palestinian brothers” within the Al-Aqsa Mosque area and the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. The official statement charged Israel with permitting “arbitrary practices” that incite serious hostility towards Muslims and blatantly undermine the sanctity of the holy city.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that persistent aggression from Israeli extremists, along with inflammatory speech and calls to violence, constitute “a systematic and extremist campaign” targeting not only the Palestinian population but also the broader international community. They cautioned that such actions increase the risk of escalating tensions in the region, especially at a time when focus should be on resolving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Additionally, the UAE urged Israel’s government to assume full responsibility by condemning these provocative actions, holding accountable those responsible—including government officials—and taking immediate steps to prevent Jerusalem from becoming a venue for violence and incitement. The ministry indicated that failure to act would be interpreted as implicit endorsement and would exacerbate the ongoing cycle of hatred, racism, and instability.
Furthermore, the Emirati Foreign Ministry highlighted the significance of respecting Jordan’s role as the custodian of Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem. This includes adhering to international law and maintaining the historical status quo concerning the authority of the Waqf over Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock, and adjacent areas.
Tens of thousands participated in Monday’s Flag March, which traditionally follows a path through downtown Jerusalem to the Western Wall, navigating through the gates and alleyways of the Old City. At the Damascus Gate, confrontations were reported between Jewish marchers and Arab residents. Footage revealed Jewish participants throwing water bottles while voicing nationalistic chants such as “death to Arabs” and “may your village burn.”
In response to these events, Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levi visited the area and later stated to reporters: “I didn’t hear any racist chants.”