Ben-Gvir storms Al-Aqsa Mosque compound

Ben-Gvir’s move defied the longstanding regulations governing the sensitive site, known as Temple Mount to Jews, which has restrictions on non-Muslim prayer.

The status quo at Al-Aqsa Mosque compound

Israel's official stance upholds a delicate "status quo" arrangement with Muslim authorities, allowing Jews to visit but prohibiting prayer at the compound, which is administered by a Jordanian religious foundation.

Ben-Gvir's statement and actions

In a post on X, Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated: "I ascended today to our holy place, in prayer for the welfare of our soldiers, to swiftly return all the hostages and total victory with God's help." He shared a photo of himself walking on the compound but did not provide images or video of him praying.

Controversy and historical tensions

The visit is controversial, as past suggestions by Israeli ultranationalists to alter religious observance rules at the site have led to violence with Palestinians. Ben-Gvir's call for Jews to be allowed to pray at the compound has drawn sharp criticism in the past.

Ben-Gvir's role and security concerns

Ben-Gvir, who oversees Israel's national police force, heads a religious-nationalist party in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition. Despite his statements, Israeli police have previously prevented ministers from visiting the compound due to national security concerns.