The Legal Characterization of the Current Status Quo at al-Aqsa Mosque Under Public International Law
Date
2025-05
Authors
Kamel Rayan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Al-Quds University
Abstract
Jerusalem, one of Palestine’s largest and most historically significant cities, holds
profound religious and political importance. As the capital of the independent State
of Palestine, it is revered by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. A historical and
cultural examination of Jerusalem reveals its deeply rooted Arab identity, with
an unbroken connection between the city and the Arab and Muslim worlds. This
bond is anchored in its sanctity and its profound place in their faith, history, and
collective consciousness. Jerusalem’s Islamic heritage is evident in its enduring,
ancient sanctuaries. It was the first Qibla—the initial direction toward which
Muslims turned in prayer for over sixteen months at the dawn of Islam1
.
In light of the foregoing discussion on the intrinsic bond between the city of
Jerusalem and its sanctified enclave, al-Aqsa Mosque, it becomes imperative to
delve into the origins of the ensuing arrangements concerning the status quo and
their spiritual underpinnings. This necessitates an exploration of two key aspects:
first, the governance of Jerusalem under Islamic rule and its administrative
divisions; and second, the location and defining landmarks of al-Aqsa Mosque,
which form the basis of the regulations governing visitation and prayer within its
sacred precincts.