The Republic of Poland notes with concern increased tensions around the holy sites in Jerusalem, in particular around the Temple Mount/Al-Haram al-Sharif. Any actions that may undermine the status quo of the holy sites, regardless of which religion these sites serve, only contribute to a further escalation of tensions and can lead to tragic consequences. In this context, Poland condemns the recent act of vandalism and destruction of several dozen gravestones at the Christian cemetery on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, in the vicinity of the burial site of Polish civilians and soldiers of the Anders’ Army, as well as Oskar Schindler.

The Republic of Poland appreciates the fact that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel has unequivocally condemned this act of vandalism. We hope that the matter will be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators will be brought to justice. 

There can be no justification for actions that impair the integrity and tranquillity of places of such exceptional religious and spiritual significance. Protection of the spiritual, religious, and cultural significance of Jerusalem, as envisaged repeatedly in the relevant United Nations resolutions, is a fundamental obligation under international law. It is also one of civilisation standards that must be strictly adhered to.

 

Łukasz Jasina
MFA Spokesperson