Norway strongly opposes the recent Israeli statement on building a synagogue on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount

'This provocation joins a series of unacceptable statements and actions by the Minister, aimed at altering the historical status quo in Jerusalem and fueling tension at a time when the region is in dire need of the opposite', said Eide. 

'All attention should now be on what is most important: a ceasefire, the release of hostages and de-escalation, including in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Norway expects all parties to adhere to the status quo for the holy sites in Jerusalem and Jordan's trusteeship', Eide said.