OIC statement on commemoration of burning of Al-Aqsa Mosque – OIC press release/Non-UN document

STATEMENT RELEASED BY THE GENERAL SECRETARIAT OF THE ORGANIZATION OF THE ISLAMIC CONFERENCE ON THE COMMEMORATION OF THE BURNING OF THE HOLY AL-AQSA MOSQUE

The 21^st of August 2004 marks the thirty-fifth anniversary of the atrocious arson attempt carried out against the Blessed Mosque by Israeli extremists on 21 .8.1969. New grave threats to destruct the Blessed Aqsa Mosque from Israeli extremists are emerging.

On this occasion, the OIC reaffirms that the safety of Islamic holy sites assumes a basic importance for the establishment of peace and security in the region. Consequently, Israel fully bears the responsibility toward the Islamic world in particular and the international community in general, to guarantee the protection of all holy shrines controlled by it currently, and to ensure freedom of worship therein. The government of Israel is under obligation to comply with international agreements and conventions, particularly the 4^th Geneva Convention, to take the necessary measures against those involved in planning and instigating the sabotage acts against the holy shrines in the city of Al-Quds Ashareef or on any other spot in occupied Palestine.

Against the background of the serious threats of aggression and destruction against the Aqusa Mosque, the OIC, which was established for the cause of Al-Quds and Palestine, appeals to the international community to endeavor to compel Israel to protect and respect the holy Islamic shrines. It also cautions that any harm against the Blessed Aqusa Mosque and the other sanctities, will have grave consequences on Muslims and Believers all around the world with unpredictable dangers on the international peace and security. Furthermore, the OIC appeals to the UN Security Council and the rest of the political, legal and religious organizations around the world, to warn Israel against the consequences of any  lax or conspiracy in this matter.

On this occasion the OIC reiterates the unwavering position of the Islamic Ummah on the cause of the city of Al-Quds. It further renews the  call on member states to continue  extending  all forms of support and backing for the just struggle of the Palestinian people  to put an end to occupation , restore their full national rights to establish their independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds  Ashareef as its capital.

 Jeddah : 19 August 2004