Turkey Plans To Reopen The Hagia Sophia As A Mosque

The Ayasofya, originally a cathedral, was converted into a mosque in 1453 after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul. It became a museum in 1935, but a recent court decision annulled this status, allowing it to function as a mosque again. This move has sparked international concern, with figures like US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urging Turkey to maintain its museum status for universal accessibility. Turkey defends its decision, emphasizing its respect for Ayasofya's historical and cultural significance.

What concerns did other countries express regarding the Ayasofya?

• Cultural heritage

• Religious freedom

• Tourism impact

• Political influence

How did Turkey's Ministry of Foreign Affairs respond to the concerns raised by the US?

• By agreeing to keep it a museum

• By emphasizing sovereignty

• By ignoring the concerns

• By proposing a compromise