JERUSALEM, Israel – Far-right Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has once again stirred global outrage after visiting the sacred Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and openly praying, violating long-standing international agreements on the site’s religious status.
The controversial act took place on Tisha B’Av, a solemn Jewish day, prompting sharp condemnation from Palestinian officials, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Over 1,250 Jewish worshippers were reported at the site during the visit, raising fears of further unrest in the region.
The compound—revered by Muslims and Jews alike—operates under a fragile arrangement that bars non-Muslim worship. Ben-Gvir’s prayer has been branded a deliberate provocation, with warnings that it could inflame tensions amid ongoing conflict and occupation concerns.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has downplayed the incident, insisting that the government’s official stance on the status quo remains unchanged.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.