SAFA-  Hamas Movement called for protecting Al-Aqsa Mosque against the incursions of the Israeli settlers and plans to storm it, warning of potential escalation at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem.

In a statement on Wednesday, the movement called for increasing visits to the compound during what Jewish groups mark as the anniversary of the destruction of the ancient Temple, which could heighten tensions and pose risks to the status quo at the site.

Hamas described the calls as a provocation, adding that the Israeli occupation forces and associated settler groups are trying to change the religious and historical identity of Jerusalem. It said such Israeli attempts would not succeed in changing the identity of the city or its holy sites.

The statement also condemned the Israeli vandalism at the compound, including the drawing of religious symbols in the eastern courtyard, calling the incidents part of broader attempts to undermine the site’s Islamic heritage.

Hamas warned that any harm to the mosque would constitute a “red line” and could lead to further escalation, reiterating its position that the site’s status should remain unchanged.

The movement called on Palestinians, particularly residents of Jerusalem and Arab citizens in occupied territories in 1948, to increase their presence at the compound, urging them to remain in its courtyards in response to the ongoing Israeli threats.

It also appealed to Arab and Muslim countries, as well as religious, human rights, and media organizations, to take action and support efforts to protect the site, which is considered the third holiest in Islam.