The visit of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, where he led prayers, has sparked significant backlash, raising fears of escalating tensions over one of the Middle East’s most sensitive sites.
Tensions Escalate as Israeli Minister Prays at Controversial Holy Site
Tensions Escalate as Israeli Minister Prays at Controversial Holy Site
Itamar Ben-Gvir's prayer at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound ignites outrage and concerns over the delicate status quo in Jerusalem.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has ignited controversy following his recent visit to the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem, where he openly prayed, contravening decades-old agreements regarding the site. This action has prompted outrage from various factions, including the Jordanian government and Palestinian leaders.
Photos and videos circulating online show Ben-Gvir engaged in Jewish prayers at the compound, revered by Jews as the Temple Mount. The site, which holds immense spiritual significance for both Jews and Muslims, is the holiest in Judaism and third holiest in Islam. According to longstanding agreements, while Jewish visitation is permitted, praying is strictly prohibited to maintain the site’s delicate status quo.
The Israeli prime minister's office attempted to calm the situation by reaffirming its commitment to the existing arrangements governing the site, which are overseen by Jordan, the historical custodian. Yet, Ben-Gvir's actions have been described by Jordan as “an unacceptable provocation.” Palestinian factions, including Hamas, have characterized the visit as an exacerbation of ongoing aggressions against their communities.
Memories of past tensions surrounding the site are reignited; it was initially captured by Israel during the 1967 Middle East war, following which the status quo allowed Jordan to maintain custodianship while Israel controlled access and security. Palestinian authorities argue that Israel is actively undermining these agreements, with numerous reports of Jewish visitors praying without intervention from Israeli law enforcement.
Reports indicate that Ben-Gvir, known for his ultra-nationalistic stance and previous provocations against Palestinian communities – he has been sanctioned by the UK for inciting violence – was surrounded by police during his visit. He commented on the hostages taken by Hamas, emphasizing his role in the Israeli response, and reiterated his controversial stance for a full Israeli occupation of Gaza, a position experts warn could amount to a war crime involving the forced displacement of Palestinians.
