The European Union Saturday called on the authorities to act urgently to de-escalate the current tensions in Jerusalem.

‘Acts of incitement around the Haram Al-Sharif must be avoided and the status quo has to be respected,’ said EU lead spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Peter Stano, in a statement.

He noted that over the past days, tensions and violence in the occupied West Bank, particularly in East Jerusalem, have dangerously risen. Last night saw serious clashes at the Haram Al-Sharif, which led to many injured.

‘Violence and incitement are unacceptable and the perpetrators on all sides must be held accountable,’ he said.

The EU urged political, religious, and community leaders on all sides to show restraint and responsibility and make every effort to calm down this volatile situation.

‘The situation with regard to the evictions of Palestinian families in Sheikh Jarrah and other areas of East Jerusalem is also of serious concern. Such actions are illegal under international humanitarian law and only serve to fuel tensions on the ground,’ added the EU statement.

According to media reports, clashes that took place after Israeli occupation forces stormed the Al Aqsa compound in Jerusalem last night resulted in the injury of 163 Palestinians.

Thousands of worshippers had gathered at Al Aqsa, Islam's third holiest site, to observe the last Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan.