Israel's national security minister visited the holiest Muslim site in Jerusalem for prayer, amidst ongoing efforts by some factions within his government to prevent any potential ceasefire agreement between conflicting parties.
Isamar Ben-Gvir, a prominent figure associated with hardline views and advocacy for settlers' interests, recorded footage at the al-Aqsa mosque compound - also referred to as the Temple Mount - an area of religious significance both to Muslims and Jews.
Within view of the Dome of the Rock, Ben-Gvir conversed with his security detail while accompanied by Israeli border police personnel nearby. He expressed support for continuing a military presence in Gaza rather than reaching an agreement perceived as weak, following recent hostage incidents involving Palestinian militants.
His visit sparked criticism from Jordan's foreign ministry, which deemed it provocative and contrary to the principles of the body overseeing the Islamic site. The Israeli interior minister responded by expressing concerns about such actions.
A spokesperson for the US National Security Council also voiced worries regarding rhetenticious statements that could negatively impact peace efforts in the West Bank. Despite President Biden's ongoing Covid-19 condition, a scheduled meeting between him and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is anticipated next week as part of Netanyahu's upcoming visit to Washington.
The latest incursion by Ben-Gvir follows his previous protest at the location in May when he opposed international recognition of Palestinian statehood. Such visits are seen as potentially exacerbating tensions, particularly during negotiations for a ceasefire agreement.
Al-Aqsa mosque compound holds immense religious significance and has historically been a source of conflict due to differing views on the site's control and accessibility by various groups. Visits by Israeli officials or military actions near this location have often sparked protests in the past, as exemplified by an incident that contributed to escalated hostilities during the second intifada.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated his stance on visiting holy sites: "Muslims pray on the Temple Mount; non-Muslims have visitors." Daniel Seidemann, a legal expert and Jerusalem politics specialist, notes that there has been an erosion of the previously maintained balance at this site over time.
Ben-Gvir's visit is interpreted as symbolic nationalistic assertiveness rather than a direct attempt to dictate policy outcomes in ongoing discussions surrounding Gaza operations or potential ceasefire agreements.
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