Tensions have escalated in occupied East Jerusalem after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir joined thousands of Israeli settlers in entering the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound during the Jewish holiday of Tisha B’Av. The visit, widely condemned by Palestinian officials and several Arab governments, comes just months before Israel’s upcoming parliamentary elections.
Ben-Gvir, a prominent far-right minister, toured the compound under heavy police protection and praised the growing number of Jewish visitors to the site. He also suggested that Jewish prayer at the compound was becoming more accepted, remarks that critics say challenge the long-standing status quo under which only Muslims are permitted to pray at the holy site, while non-Muslims may visit during designated hours.
The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, known to Muslims as Haram al-Sharif and to Jews as the Temple Mount, is one of the world’s most sensitive religious sites. It is administered by the Jordanian Islamic Waqf, while Israeli security forces control access.
Palestinian authorities described the visit as a “dangerous provocation” aimed at inflaming religious tensions. Jordan, the custodian of Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, strongly condemned the incursion, calling it a violation of international law and the historic arrangements governing the compound.
According to reports, more than 4,000 Israeli visitors entered the compound during the event, making it one of the largest such visits in recent years. The increased activity has fueled fears of further unrest in Jerusalem and the occupied Palestinian territories.
Political analysts say the visit also carries domestic significance. With Israeli elections approaching, far-right leaders have increasingly emphasized nationalist and religious issues to mobilize their support base. Ben-Gvir has repeatedly visited the site since taking office, despite warnings from regional governments and international observers that such actions risk triggering violence.
The latest development comes amid continued tensions across the region, with diplomatic efforts focused on preventing further escalation around Jerusalem’s holy sites.
