Sheikh Sabri was brought to court in a wheelchair. He emphasized that the charges brought against him are an attempt to silence those who condemn the attacks by radical Jews on the mosque and criticize the policy of occupation. The Imam noted that Israel's actions are aimed at suppressing the Palestinian presence in Jerusalem and undermining the rights of Muslims to holy sites. "We will never abandon Al-Aqsa; it is a part of our faith," he added.
Sheikh's defense attorney, Khaled Zabarqa, described the charges as "fabricated" and pointed out that this case is part of a systematic persecution of Palestinian religious leaders. He also reported on a campaign of incitement from far-right groups that are calling for violence and the killing of the Imam.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for January 6. It is worth noting that in August 2024, Sheikh Sabri was banned from accessing Al-Aqsa for six months due to his comments on the death of Ismail Haniyeh. Israeli authorities regularly impose restrictions on the Imam for his support of Gaza.
Al-Aqsa is considered the third holiest site in Islam and is located in East Jerusalem, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. The annexation of this area, carried out in 1980, is not recognized by the international community.
