Tensions Escalate as Israeli Minister Prays at Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has caused unrest by openly praying at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, breaching established protocols while sparking condemnation from various factions.

 

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has ignited widespread outrage following his recent visit to the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem, where he led Jewish prayers. This action is perceived as a violation of a long-standing agreement regulating activities at one of the most contested religious sites in the Middle East.

The al-Aqsa Mosque compound, revered by Muslims and referred to as the Temple Mount by Jews, is under dispute, and Ben-Gvir's prayers, which were captured in photos and videos, have drawn sharp criticism. Historically, the compound allows Jewish visitation but prohibits prayer, with current Israeli policy insisting there has been no alteration to this arrangement.

Reacting to the minister's actions, Jordan—acting as the custodian of the site—described Ben-Gvir's visit as "an unacceptable provocation." Similarly, Hamas condemned the prayer as "a deepening of the ongoing aggressions against our Palestinian people," while advisors to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said it went "beyond all red lines."

The al-Aqsa compound holds significant importance; it is the holiest site for Jews due to its connection to Biblical temples, while Muslims consider it the third holiest site, associated with the Prophet Muhammad's ascension to heaven. Israel took control of the site following the 1967 Middle East war, with Jordan retaining a historic custodianship, while Israel manages security.

Concerns have increased among Palestinians about perceived infringements on the status quo, with accusations that Israel is undermining existing arrangements, especially as reports of unregulated Jewish prayers have surfaced in recent years. According to the Waqf, the Islamic trust overseeing the site, Ben-Gvir's attendance was part of a larger group of over 1,200 Jewish visitors that day.

This is not the first time Ben-Gvir, who is known for his ultra-nationalist stance and oversight of police as national security minister, has visited the compound. However, media sources, including the Times of Israel, noted this was his first public display of prayer at the site. While touring, Ben-Gvir was accompanied by police officials and used the opportunity to address recent videos released by Hamas, discussing hostages and expressing his support for Israel's broader militaristic intentions toward Gaza, which some experts deem as violations of international law due to possible forced displacements of civilians.

The rising tensions surrounding Ben-Gvir's visit underscore the delicate balance of religious and political dynamics in the region, likely complicating future efforts toward peace and stability.