LOC21:13
18:13 GMT
CAIRO, July 21 (KUNA) -- Egypt urged Israel Friday to cease violence committed against the Palestinians immediately in occupied Jerusalem and around Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The Egyptian foreign ministry expressed alarming concern over the ramification of the Israeli excessive use of force, which killed and injured scores of Palestinians.
The ministry, in a statement, underlined importance of respecting sacred sites and the freedom of Palestinians to worship in a secured environment and away from punitive measures.
The ministry called on the Israeli government to refrain from violent actions that would hamper any settlement with the Palestinians.
Arab League Secretary General Ahmad Abul Gheit also condemned the Israeli army forces' use of live bullets against unarmed Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem and around Al-Aqsa Mosque.
He said the current tension would further anger the Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims.
Abul Gheit said the Israeli measures were restricting the Muslims from praying in Al-Aqsa Mosque.
He urged the international community to live up to its responsibilities and make Israel stop the use of force and abide by the international human rights law. (end)
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