We condemn the presumptuous statement by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel regarding the remarks of our President on the recent developments at Al-Haram Al-Sharif.

At the Ottoman era, communities belonging to different religions and sects lived in peaceful co-existence and enjoyed freedom of worship for centuries. In this context, Jews would be expected to know best and appreciate the unique tolerance during the Ottoman era.

Today, in the Republic of Turkey, freedom of faith and worship are also safeguarded by the state.

Al-Haram Al-Sharif, which is the third most sacred site for all Muslims, ranks prominently among the highest priorities of the Islamic World.

As the Israeli occupation in East Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza completed its 50th year, it is clear that the efforts to disregard the fact that East Jerusalem is under occupation will not contribute to the attainment of peace and stability in the region as well as the resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Therefore, the responsibility that rests with Israel is to urgently make common sense prevail, go back to the status quo at Al-Haram Al-Sharif and lift all the restrictions on the freedom of worship.