MEDIA STATEMENT

For Immediate Release — 29 Ramadan 1447 AH / 19 March 2026

“They have locked the gates of heaven’s doorstep. This is not politics. This is an attack on faith itself.”

SOUTH AFRICA — As millions of Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the gates of Masjid Al-Aqsa remain locked by Israeli occupation forces. Worshippers have been barred from Islam’s third holiest site for three weeks—through the final days of Ramadan, the Night of Power, and now Eid.

The Siege of the Sanctuary: Why Defending Al-Aqsa is Defending Islam Itself

“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Qur’an, 17:1)

In this sacred month of Ramadan, as Muslims around the world turn their faces in prayer towards the Qibla, their hearts remain fixed on a different sanctuary—Masjid Al-Aqsa, the first Qibla of Islam, the destination of the Prophet’s night journey, and the third holiest site in our faith. Yet today, that sanctuary is under siege.

Hassen Lorgat – Published 9 March 2026

As South Africa’s public broadcaster faces scrutiny, a recent BCCSA ruling opens the door for transformative change, prompting a vital discussion among human rights groups.

On Monday, March 9, 2026, a coalition of human rights solidarity groups will meet with the SABC to discuss the implications of the recent BCCSA ruling involving the public broadcaster.