The United States and Israel are reportedly exploring a plan that could end Jordan’s historic custodianship of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, according to multiple sources cited by Middle East Eye (MEE). Under the proposed arrangement, the Islamic Waqf’s authority would be replaced by a new body linked to the Israeli government, with the site redefined as a “multi-faith center” and Jewish access expanded to include large-group prayer.

Under the proposed arrangement, the Islamic Waqf’s authority would be replaced by a new body linked to the Israeli government, with the site redefined as a “multi-faith center” and Jewish access expanded to include large-group prayer.

Sources told MEE the plan would give Israel greater influence over the appointment of imams, preachers, and senior mosque officials, as well as oversight of Friday sermons. Two U.S. officials said Washington had prepared a paper outlining its vision for the site’s future, including a shift away from its Muslim identity and toward a broader religious and tourist role.

The proposal has reportedly been shared with several Arab states, including Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, and the UAE, while Saudi Arabia is said to oppose it. Jordan, which regards its custodianship of Al-Aqsa as a cornerstone of national and regional stability, says its position on Jerusalem remains firm and is grounded in the 1994 peace treaty with Israel.

Officials and analysts warned that the plan could destabilize the long-standing status quo at one of Islam’s holiest sites and could also raise unresolved questions about the future of Jerusalem’s Christian holy places. Following publication, a U.S. official denied the White House was working to remove Jordan’s custodianship, calling the report “totally false.”

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