Imam of Masjid Al Aqsa Sheikh Sabri has been arrested by Israeli forces for paying tribute to slain Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
Jewish authorities held Sheikh Ikrama Sabri, who is also head of the Higher Islamic Council, after his tribute to the Hamas leader during the Friday sermon.
Sheikh Sabri was arrested at his home after he honored Haniyeh during the Friday sermon, per media reports. He was taken to the Masqubia detention center.
Before his detention, Sheikh Sabri spoke to the media, denying the incitement allegations made by Israeli Interior Minister Itmar Ben Gweir and National Security Minister Moshe Arbel.
Imam defended his tribute as a religious expression and questioned its interpretation as incitement. He also noted the contradiction in being accused of provocation in a context that values freedom of speech.
The development comes in response to pressure from several Israeli ministers demanding action against Sheikh for praising Ismail Haniyeh.
