Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Prays at Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound

Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the contentious Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem on July 30, 2023, where he stated he prayed, directly challenging the longstanding regulations governing this sensitive site. Under the established “status quo” arrangement, the compound is managed by a Jordanian religious foundation, which restricts non-Muslim prayer despite permitting visits by Jews.

Following Ben-Gvir’s visit, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to maintaining the current policy, stating, “The status quo at the compound has not changed and will not change.” This declaration is significant given the history of tensions surrounding the site, which is revered as the third holiest location in Islam and the most sacred in Judaism.

Videos shared by a small Jewish organization, the Temple Mount Administration, depicted Ben-Gvir leading a group through the compound. Additional footage, which could not be independently verified by Reuters, suggested he engaged in prayer during the visit. This event coincided with Tisha B’av, a day of mourning for the destruction of two ancient Jewish temples that once stood at the site.

The Waqf, the foundation overseeing the compound, reported that Ben-Gvir was among approximately 1,250 visitors that day, many of whom reportedly prayed, shouted, and danced. Official Israeli policy acknowledges the rules that limit non-Muslim prayer, and Ben-Gvir has previously advocated for changes to these restrictions.

In a statement, Ben-Gvir expressed his desire for Israel to achieve victory over the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the ongoing conflict in Gaza and called for the return of Israeli hostages held by militants. He reiterated his controversial stance, advocating for Israel to exert full control over the Gaza enclave.

Ben-Gvir’s visit triggered condemnation from Palestinian authorities. A spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described the visit as having “crossed all red lines.” Nabil Abu Rudeineh emphasized the need for the international community, particularly the U.S. administration, to intervene and halt what he characterized as provocations from the Israeli government regarding the Al-Aqsa mosque, as well as to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

While there were no immediate reports of violence following Ben-Gvir’s visit, the potential for unrest remains a concern, as any alteration of established norms at the Al-Aqsa compound has historically incited outrage across the Muslim world. The situation underscores the complexities surrounding one of the world’s most sensitive religious sites, highlighting the delicate balance of power and faith in the region.