Tensions flared in Jerusalem as a far-right Israeli minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, led hundreds of Jewish Israelis into the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a site sacred to both Muslims and Jews. This visit, seen as highly provocative by Palestinian leaders and the international community, challenged a long-standing agreement that permits only Muslim worship at the site. Despite the Israeli government’s insistence that the status quo remains unchanged, Ben-Gvir declared, “Our policy is to enable Jewish prayer.”
The al-Aqsa Mosque compound, also known as Temple Mount, holds immense significance. For Jews, it is the holiest site, once home to two ancient temples. For Muslims, it ranks as the third holiest site, believed to be the location where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. Situated in occupied East Jerusalem, the compound has been a focal point of tensions since Israel captured it from Jordan in the 1967 war. Under the current arrangement, Jordan remains the custodian, while Israel controls security.
Palestinians argue that Israel has been undermining this arrangement, with increasing instances of Jewish prayer at the site. Video footage from the recent visit shows Jewish Israelis singing their national anthem and prostrating in prayer, actions forbidden under the status quo. Ben-Gvir, accompanied by Israeli police, proclaimed that “great progress” had been made in Israel’s sovereignty over the site.
The minister’s actions have drawn widespread condemnation. Palestinian officials warned of escalating violence, while Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia criticized Israel for violating international law. The U.S., France, and the United Nations joined in denouncing the visit, calling it a reckless provocation at a time when diplomatic efforts are crucial for a ceasefire in Gaza and broader regional stability.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office sought to contain the fallout, stressing that there had been no change in policy regarding the site. Yet, Ben-Gvir remains defiant, vowing to continue his push for Jewish prayer at al-Aqsa, despite the international outcry. As tensions continue to mount, the future of one of the world’s most contested religious sites hangs in the balance.
