His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday attended a ceremony marking the anniversary of Al Israa wal Miraj, Prophet Mohammad’s nocturnal journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to heaven according to Muslim beliefs.

During the ceremony, attended by Royal family members and senior officials and officers, Awqaf Minister Hayel Dawood delivered a speech stressing the importance of the Hashemites’ custodianship over Al Aqsa Mosque, and Muslim and Christian sites in Jerusalem.

He pointed to the Hashemites’ role in preserving the Islamic identity of the Holy City and their efforts to support Palestinians and prevent Israeli attempts to Judaise the city.

Dawood also highlighted the spirit of coexistence and tolerance the Hashemite family instilled in Jordan, citing Saturday’s visit of Pope Francis to the Kingdom.

Professor Mustafa Abu Sway, the first holder of the Integral Chair for the Study of Imam Abu Hamid Al Ghazali’s Work at the Holy Al Aqsa Mosque and Al Quds University, also delivered a speech highlighting the Hashemite role in defending Al Aqsa Mosque and other Muslim and Christian sites in Jerusalem.

He also underlined the importance of the recently concluded “Road to Jerusalem Conference” in Amman in reminding Muslims all over the world of the threats to their third holiest site.

Also on Monday, King Abdullah received cables of well wishes on the occasion of Israa wal Miraj from several leaders of Arab and Muslim states. 

His Majesty also received similar cables from senior Jordanian officials and officers.

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Hussein received similar cables on the occasion from senior Jordanian officials and officers.