Far-right Israeli minister sparks outrage by praying at Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site
Share this @internewscast.com
A far-right Israeli minister recently caused controversy by leading a group of worshippers in prayer at the most sensitive religious site in Jerusalem, defying a longstanding accord that prohibits Jewish prayer there.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who has previous convictions for supporting terrorism and promoting anti-Arab racism in Israel, observed Tisha B’Av, a Jewish day of mourning, within the Al Aqsa Mosque compound, referred to by Jews as the Temple Mount.

On Tisha B’Av, Jews mark the destruction of two ancient temples that once stood on the land.

Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, centre, flanked by his security detail, approach the entrance to Jerusalem’s most sensitive holy site in the Old City. (AP)

While there, he called for his country to “conquer” Gaza and “encourage” Palestinians to leave the enclave.

The complex is the holiest site in Judaism, where Jews face in prayer.

It is also the third holiest site in Islam.

While the site is open to visitors of all faiths, only Muslims are allowed to pray there under the “status quo agreement”, established since Israel captured Jerusalem’s Old City from Jordan in 1967.

Ben Gvir has visited the site on several occasions, including past Tisha B’Av events, but had not previously conducted a prayer service there.

The Palestinian Ministry of Religious Affairs swiftly condemned Ben Gvir, branding him an “extremist” and asserting that his actions “blatantly disregard the sentiments of Muslims globally, not just in Palestine”.

According to the ministry, Islamic holy sites are subjected to “daily violations by settler groups supported by a right-wing government aiming to control both Islamic and Christian holy sites through a distinct and methodical plan,” as stated in their declaration.

Jordan, which administrates the holy site, and Saudi Arabia also condemned Ben Gvir’s actions.

Jordan’s foreign ministry labeled the event as a “blatant breach of international law and international humanitarian law, an intolerable provocation, and a denounced escalation”.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has previously been convicted for supporting terrorism and inciting anti-Arab racism in Israel. (AP)

Hamas called the move a “grave and escalating crime against the mosque”.

Palestinians want East Jerusalem, where the compound is located, as the capital of their future state.

Most of the international community considers the eastern sector of the city as being under Israeli occupation.

Later yesterday, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement that its “policy of maintaining the status quo on the Temple Mount has not changed and will not change”.

In the past, the PMO has emphasised that policy regarding the site is determined by the Israeli government and its prime minister, not individuals.

While at the site yesterday, Ben Gvir prayed “for Israel’s complete victory in the war, and for the safe return of all the hostages”, his office said.

“It is from here that a message must be sent: to conquer the entire Gaza Strip, declare sovereignty over all of Gaza, eliminate every Hamas member, and encourage voluntary emigration,” the minister said in a video recorded at the compound.

“Only in this way will we bring back the hostages and win the war.”

Earlier this week, Ben Gvir was declared a persona non grata by the Netherlands for reportedly inciting violence against Palestinians, advocating for the expansion of illegal settlements and calling for “ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip,” Dutch foreign minister Caspar Veldkamp wrote in a letter.

This came after Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on him, as well as Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, in June.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Urgent Call to Action: Telcos Urged to Resolve Triple-Zero Failures Affecting 10,000 Samsung Users

Thousands of Samsung mobile phone users risk being out of pocket to…

U.S. Strike Targets Suspected Drug-Smuggling Vessel in Pacific, Leaving Two Dead

The United States military carried out a lethal strike on a boat…
Salmond was a sideline reporter for Fox Sports at New Zealand Warriors NRL matches until she was abruptly dumped by the network

Former Football Presenter Unveils Disturbing Deepfake Images Amid Rising Attacks to Tarnish Her Reputation

A former sports presenter has taken bold steps to confront internet trolls…

Trump Halts Trade Discussions with Canada Citing Concerns Over ‘Misleading’ Reagan Tariff Advertisement

US President Donald Trump says he is immediately ending all trade talks…
Kristy Appleton fell sick with meningococcal B on the day she returned home from competing on the world stage in waterskiing.

Mother Urges Vaccination After Athletic Daughter’s Close Call with Meningococcal B

A mother from Queensland is advocating for the meningococcal B vaccine to…
Bag cuts are now in place for recreational fishing in the two gulfs, but restrictions only apply to commercial fishers in Gulf St Vincent.

South Australian Anglers Upset by New Fishing Restrictions

South Australia’s recreational fishing enthusiasts are expressing strong discontent after the state…

Trump Cautions Israel: Potential Risks of West Bank Annexation Highlighted

United States President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Israel…

Historic Land Return: Nearly 1 Million Hectares of Cape York Restored to Traditional Owners

The Federal Court of Australia has formally recognised the Guugu Yimidhirr, Yiithuwarra,…
The fugitive father (pictured) was shot dead during a showdown between him and NZ Police

Exclusive: Inside the Secret Bush Hideouts of Fugitive Father Tom Phillips and His Children – Unveiling Three Years of Evasion

Newly released photographs have unveiled secretive bush hideouts where fugitive father Tom…
ADF generic

Class Action Lawsuit Targets Alarming Sexual Violence Rates within Australian Defence Force

Women who claim to have faced systemic sexual abuse, harassment, discrimination, and…
Trump tears down nearly all of White House East Wing for new ballroom

Trump Initiates Major Renovation in White House East Wing for New Ballroom

The White House East Wing has been completely demolished, according to newly…
Major university under investigation after underpaying staff $1.25 million

Top University Faces Scrutiny Over $1.25 Million Staff Underpayment Scandal

The University of Adelaide is currently under scrutiny following its admission of…