Israeli media reported that high-level Israeli and Jordanian officials held talks on Thursday, March 7, 2019, to end the conflict at Bab al-Rahma and defuse the tension ahead of Friday prayers.

The Israeli team was led by the head of the Israel National Security Council, Meir Ben Shabbat, according to MaKan agency.

The Jordanian Ministry of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs confirmed that the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf is the only source authorized to administer the affairs of Al Aqsa Mosque according to the international law, and under Jordanian guardianship.

Recently, Jordan has condemned Israel’s order to ban Chairman of Awqaf Council in Jerusalem, Sheikh Abdul Azim Salhab, from entering Al Aqsa Mosque's squares for 40 days, and considered it as a violation of the international law.

Earlier today, junior officials from both sides held talks, during which Jordan offered that the site be closed for long-term renovations and Israelis have agreed.

Also read: Israeli Press: Renovation of Bab al-Rahma 'planned operation backed by Jordan's King'