UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in Jerusalem and has called for steps to de-escalate tensions, said his spokesman.

Palestinians battled with Israeli security forces at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem on Friday, injuring over 100 persons. On Friday, the UN secretary-general urged leaders on both sides to help calm the situation. Provocations on the holy site, which is sacred to both Jews and Muslims, must end to prevent further escalation, according to spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

According to the statement, Guterres underlined his plea for the status quo at Jerusalem's sacred sites to be maintained and preserved.

Tor Wennesland, the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, is in close contact with key regional partners and parties to help calm the situation. Guterres restated his commitment to assisting Palestinians and Israelis in resolving the issue in accordance with applicable United Nations resolutions, international law, and bilateral agreements.

As the Jewish holiday of Passover coincides with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, tensions between Israel and the Palestinians have risen in the West Bank and East Jerusalem during the past three weeks.

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