Far-Right Israeli Minister Sparks Outrage with Controversial Comments on Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound
A far-right Israeli minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, has once again stirred controversy by expressing his desire to build a synagogue at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque compound, a site considered sacred by both Muslims and Jews. Ben Gvir’s comments have reignited tensions surrounding the long-standing ban on Jews praying at the compound.
The Al-Aqsa compound, also known as the Temple Mount to Jews, holds significant religious and historical importance. It is Islam’s third holiest site and a symbol of Palestinian national identity. For Jews, it is their holiest place, as it is believed to be the location of the second temple destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.
In an interview with Army Radio, Ben Gvir stated that if he had the opportunity, he would build a synagogue at the Al-Aqsa compound. He even went as far as saying that he would put an Israeli flag on the site. These remarks directly challenge the current government policy, which prohibits Jews from praying at the compound and displaying religious symbols.
Under the status quo maintained by Israeli authorities, non-Muslims, including Jews, are allowed to visit the compound during specified hours. However, they are strictly forbidden from praying there. In recent years, hard-line religious nationalists like Ben Gvir have increasingly defied these restrictions, leading to violent reactions from Palestinians.
The administration of the Al-Aqsa mosque compound falls under Jordan’s jurisdiction, but Israeli security forces control access to the site. Ben Gvir argued that Jews should be allowed to pray at the compound, claiming that the current policy already permits it. However, his comments have been met with widespread condemnation from various Israeli officials.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office released a statement affirming that there would be no change to the current policy. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant described Ben Gvir’s actions as dangerous and irresponsible, emphasizing that they jeopardize Israel’s national security. Palestinian presidency spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh also condemned the minister’s remarks, asserting that the holy sites are a red line that should not be crossed.
Hamas, the militant group engaged in a bitter conflict with Israel in the Gaza Strip, labeled Ben Gvir’s comments as dangerous and called on Arab and Islamic countries to protect the holy sites. This controversy comes shortly after Ben Gvir announced that he had prayed at the compound, a move that drew widespread condemnation, including from influential Israeli rabbis.
The Al-Aqsa mosque compound has long been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Any attempts to alter the status quo or challenge the sanctity of the site have historically resulted in increased tensions and violence. The international community has repeatedly called for respect and preservation of the religious significance of the compound.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Israeli government will respond to Ben Gvir’s controversial remarks. The delicate balance between religious freedom and maintaining peace in the region continues to be a contentious issue.