US and Israel's Al-Aqsa Custodianship Plan: Unpacking the Power Dynamics and Historical Context
Original framing: “US and Israel 'actively working' to strip Jordan of Al-Aqsa custodianship, sources say” — Middle East Eye
The history of Al-Aqsa's custodianship dates back to the 1924 Mandate for Palestine, when the British government entrusted the site to the Jordanian monarchy. This arrangement was a compromise between the British and the Hashemite dynasty, which had been ousted from Mecca. The custodianship has been a contentious issue ever since, with various actors seeking to exert influence over the site.
The reported plan to strip Jordan of Al-Aqsa custodianship is a symptom of a broader regional power struggle, where the US and Israel seek to consolidate their influence over Jerusalem.
This move would undermine Jordan's historical role in the city and potentially destabilize the region. To address this crisis, actors must focus on addressing the underlying power dynamics and structural causes, including the ongoing Israeli occupation and settlement expansion. A renewed focus on regional diplomacy and cooperation, as well as a deeper understanding of the historical context and cultural significance of Al-Aqsa, is essential for finding a solution that preserves regional stability and security.