Excavation sparks world protests

Occupied Jerusalem: There has been strong worldwide reaction over Israel's decision to carry out construction work near the Al Asqa mosque, Islam's third holiest site, which is sacred to both Muslims and Jews.

Over 2,000 people took to the streets of Amman on Friday to protest the excavation, while Jordan's King Abdullah II condemned what he called Israel's "violations" against protestors at the site, after forces used stun grenades to deter protestors.

He warned that such actions would only increase violence and place "obstacles" in the path of peace.

Protests also took place in Syria and Egypt amid Muslim outcry over the public works near the mosque compound, which is revered by Jews as the location of their ancient temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan released a statement saying it was "deeply concerned over the reports of demolition of [the mosque's] wall and calls for immediate halt to all such activities."

Malaysia's foreign ministry accused Israel of "wilfully destroying" religious, cultural and heritage sites in the occupied territories, and of "direct aggression" toward the mosque.

A statement released by the ministry said, "We denounce this blatant act of provocation and the complete disregard for the sanctity of the holy mosque."