Israeli Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, accompanied by rabbis, settlers and security personnel, under the protection of Israeli forces.
According to Al Jazeera, the far-right politician performed prayers and Talmudic rituals in the eastern part of the mosque's courtyards, while speaking out in favor of establishing a Jewish temple in the area. The Al-Aqsa compound is Islam's third holiest site and one of the most sensitive points in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Under the status quo agreement, in effect since 1967, non-Muslims can visit the compound but are not allowed to pray there. However, Ben-Gvir stated during his introduction that in the past, prayer was prohibited and those who “mumbled” were arrested, but today, he said, the situation has changed.
He also spoke about the need for the blowing of the shofar and brought up the idea of a temple at this site, saying that this should be done “little by little.” The statement was seen as another open challenge to the historical and religious status quo of the complex.
Ben-Gvir, leader of the far-right Jewish Power party, has previously entered the Al-Aqsa compound several times since taking office in 2022, sparking widespread reactions and condemnation.
He is one of the most hardline figures in the Israeli government and a supporter of the settler movement that is seeking to change control over the compound and build a Jewish synagogue on the site of one of the most important Muslim shrines.
The Jerusalem Governorate condemned his entry into Al-Aqsa, calling it a dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of the historical and legal status of the mosque. According to the Palestinian authorities, the action aims to establish new realities on the ground and change the Islamic identity of the holy site.
Since 2003, Israeli police have allowed settlers daily access to the Al-Aqsa compound, except on Fridays and Saturdays. Meanwhile, Israeli authorities often impose restrictions on Palestinian worshippers seeking to pray at the holy site.
