A special programme commemorating Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque was held in Istanbul on Aug. 23, 2026, on the sidelines of the Istanbul International Arab Book Fair. The event marked three significant occasions: the launch of the 20th edition of the Eye on Al-Aqsa report, the opening of the International Jerusalem Foundation’s regional office in Türkiye, and the anniversary of the 1969 arson attack on Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Professor Ahmet Ağırakça, Chairman of the International Jerusalem Foundation, announced that the foundation would continue and expand its international activities from Istanbul, particularly in the areas of research, cultural heritage, public awareness, and advocacy concerning Jerusalem.

The programme featured contributions from Yassin Hamoud, Director-General of the Foundation; Ali Mohyiddin Al-Qaradaghi, President of the International Union of Muslim Scholars; Yasin Aktay, Turkish academic; and other scholars and researchers.

Discussions focused on the status of Al-Aqsa Mosque, perceived threats to its historical status quo, and the religious, historical, and civilizational significance of Jerusalem.

A notable invitee to the event, Mohammad Zakir Hossain, Chairman of the Al-Ummah Foundation and Editor-in-Chief of Al-Ummah, presented the translated version of a book on Palestine to Sheikh Esam Al-Bashir, a prominent Islamic scholar and writer. The presentation underscored the importance of translating and disseminating literature on Palestine among Bengali-speaking audiences.

The opening of the Istanbul office marks a significant expansion of the Jerusalem Foundation’s activities beyond Lebanon and provides a platform for greater regional and international cooperation on research, cultural heritage, education, and awareness related to Jerusalem and Palestine.

The event strengthened academic, cultural, and institutional engagement on Jerusalem and highlighted the importance of preserving its historical and cultural heritage.