JERUSALEM – Al-Aqsa Mosque Imam Sheikh Ekrima Sabri was arrested briefly by Israeli authorities for paying tribute to Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated by the Israeli intelligence agency.
After Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran, Sheikh Sabri led the funeral prayer in absentia at Al-Aqsa Mosque. The 85-year-old who is known critic of Jewish occupation, faced detention and a mosque ban.
Al Aqsa Mosque Imam Dr. Ekrima Sabri
Dr. Ekrima Sai’d Sabri, who is currently residing in Jerusalem, is distinguished Islamic scholar and leader. Sabri, who holds a doctorate in General Fiqh from Al-Azhar University, an M.A. in Fiqh and Legislation from Al Najah University, and a B.A. in Islamic Shari’a & Arts from the University of Baghdad, has an extensive academic background.
He started his career teaching at Islamic Al-Aqsa Secondary School, eventually becoming its principal, and later served as Director of Preaching and Guidance. From 1994 to 2006, Sabri was the General Mufti of Jerusalem and the Palestinian Territories.
He remained academic at top faculties in Jerusalem and Ramallah and has been involved in numerous international and local activities. He served as preacher at Al Aqsa Mosque, chairman of multiple Islamic councils, and has been instrumental in founding several Islamic organizations.
Besides preaching, he also authored top publications on Islamic law, doctrine, and modern issues, and has participated in countless seminars and conferences globally.
His accolades include hundreds of medals and certificates from various countries since 1972.
Update on Al Aqsa mosque imam after detention by Israeli forces
