European Union calls for respect of Islamic holy places

Havana, April 5 (RHC) The European Union today called for respect for the status of Jerusalem's holy places in reference to the eviction and detention by Israeli security forces of more than 400 people in the Al Aqsa Mosque.

The Community Foreign Affairs spokesman, Peter Stano, pointed out that EU diplomacy is following the tension and violence registered in the temple with deep concern.

“At this time, it is extremely important to maintain the status of holy places and we reiterate the call on all parties to show restraint and avoid actions that exacerbate tensions, particularly at this time of religious festivities”, Stano said.

This morning Israeli security forces entered the mosque considered the third holiest place in Islam and a major source of tension in the area, and confronted Palestinians locked up there, with stones and fireworks.

The official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported more than 400 Palestinians detained and dozens injured during the clashes.

The Israeli Army and Palestinian militias from the Gaza Strip exchanged projectiles, which constitutes the first violent incident since the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. (Source: Prensa Latina)