The Palestinian Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs has issued a formal condemnation following reports that Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Sunday evening. According to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), the minister was accompanied by a group of settlers and was provided with heavy security by Israeli police during his visit to the site.
Local authorities in the Jerusalem Governorate stated that the minister performed Talmudic rituals in the eastern section of the mosque compound. The Al-Aqsa site, which is considered one of the holiest locations in Islam, remains a frequent flashpoint for tensions between Israeli authorities and Palestinian residents. The Ministry of Awqaf characterized the entry as a provocative act and a violation of the historical status quo of the holy site.
This incident follows a period of heightened regional volatility, with international bodies and various nations currently engaged in discussions regarding the broader security situation in the region. As of this report, Israeli officials have not issued a detailed response to the specific allegations regarding the nature of the activities performed during the visit. The situation at the compound remains under close observation by local religious authorities.
The report originates from QNA, a state-affiliated news agency, regarding a specific event involving a high-profile government official. While international wire services have not independently confirmed this specific Sunday evening incident, the report is internally consistent and aligns with the known political profile and past actions of the minister mentioned.
No corroborating trusted sources found.
Original report: QNA