U.N.: ARAB CLAIMS RE ISRAELI'S TEMPLE MOUNT WORK REFUTED

UN Experts: Mugrabi Gate Dig Does Not Harm Temple Mount Compound - Shlomo Shamir
Israel's excavation work at the Mugrabi Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem is being carried out in accordance with international standards, according to the report drafted by a team of UNESCO experts who came to Jerusalem to inspect the dig. Sources in the UN said the report, to be published Wednesday, accepts Israel's claims that the excavations do not harm the Temple Mount compound, and support the legality of the work.

However, the report criticizes Israel's choice to carry out the excavation independently, and calls on Israel to temporarily halt the excavation immediately to allow continued international supervision. (Ha'aretz)