His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel's excavation work near an entrance to the Aqsa Mosque compound and said he was deeply concerned about the Israeli practices against Islamic shrines in Jerusalem.

King Abdullah said that Jordan will exert all efforts with Arab and international parties to safeguard Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem, in line with the Kingdom's duty as well as the peace treaty with Israel.

His Majesty also warned that Israel's “unacceptable violations” will not contribute to efforts seeking the revival of the peace process.

King Abdullah said he directed the government to urgently contact Israeli authorities to stop its measures.

The Jordan Times