Call for expulsion of Israeli ambassador in protest at violations of Al-Aqsa Mosque

Members of Egypt’s Shura (Consultative) Council have demanded the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador in protest at the ongoing violations of the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem. Calls have also been made for the Egyptian ambassador to be recalled from Tel Aviv.

Dr. Ahmed Fahmy, the Shura Council president, said that although the Council cannot force this issue as of right, its members have submitted their demand to the government for its response.

Discussion of the issue was initiated by Mohamed El-Saghir of the Construction and Development Party during a general session of the Shura Council. His demand was picked up by other members, some of whom also called for an end to any normalisation policies with Israel, pointing out that a complete break in relations will be more damaging than the expulsion of the ambassador.

The Minister of Legal Affairs, Chancellor Hatem Bjato, pledged to convey the Council’s point of view to the government, noting that the view of the Shura represents that of the people of Egypt.