Israel: Far-right Minister Prays at Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound, Sparking Condemnation

Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir sparked controversy by praying at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem. The move comes amid heightened tensions in the region and has been condemned by Palestinians and Jordan.

Ben-Gvir, along with approximately 1,200 Israelis, entered the mosque compound on Tisha B’av. According to the Jordanian Waqf, the visitors prayed, shouted, and danced. Ben-Gvir himself stated that he prayed for Israel's victory over Hamas and the return of the hostages.

This action contradicts the status quo, according to which Jews can visit the site but are not allowed to pray there. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Israel's policy of maintaining the status quo at the compound has not changed.

The visit was condemned by the spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who described it as a violation of "all red lines." Jordan and Saudi Arabia also condemned the move.