Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, head of the Higher Islamic Council in Jerusalem, has called for commemorating the anniversary of the arson attack on Al-Aqsa Mosque to educate younger generations of Palestinians about the holy site’s history and highlight the threats it continues to face.

Speaking on Saturday, Sheikh Sabri said commemorating the blaze was an opportunity to reaffirm Palestinian rights to Al-Aqsa Mosque and draw international attention to the issue.

“Commemorating the anniversary is an opportunity to reaffirm our rights to the Aqsa Mosque and to make our voice heard worldwide. These rights are inalienable and non-negotiable,” Sabri said.

Sabri recalled taking part alongside Jerusalem residents in efforts to extinguish the fire when the mosque was set ablaze, saying people used water, soil and whatever improvised tools were available to prevent the flames from spreading.

He also claimed that fire brigades from al-Bireh, Ramallah, Bethlehem and Hebron arrived late at the scene, describing the obstruction of their arrival as one of what he called indicators of Israeli culpability.

The attack, which occurred in August 1969, caused extensive damage to parts of the mosque and remains a significant event in Palestinian and Islamic history.

“The memory of the blaze will not be forgotten as long as the Aqsa Mosque continues to face ongoing threats,” Sabri stressed.

Sabri urged Palestinians to continue defending Al-Aqsa Mosque and safeguarding its religious and historical significance.

He emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of the arson attack among younger generations, warning that continued threats to the compound make it essential to keep the history of the site and the circumstances surrounding the blaze alive.

His remarks come amid continued tensions surrounding Al-Aqsa Mosque, with Palestinian officials and religious authorities repeatedly warning against actions they say could alter the site's historic and religious status. (ILKHA)