Israeli police say they have released the top Muslim cleric in the holy land after several hours of questioning over disturbances at a disputed Jerusalem holy site.

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld says the mufti of Jerusalem, Mohammed Hussein, was released on Wednesday afternoon.

Police detained Hussein earlier in the day following disturbances on Tuesday at the Har Habayis.

Palestinians condemned the detention, and Jordan’s parliament, in a symbolic gesture, called for the kingdom to expel the Israeli ambassador.

(AP)