Israeli far-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir sparked controversy by calling for the construction of a synagogue at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, Islam’s third holiest site. Despite a ban on Jewish prayers at the compound, Ben-Gvir stated his desire to build a synagogue on the Temple Mount, as Jews refer to the site, known for the second temple’s destruction.
Ben-Gvir’s repeated visits to the disputed holy site have drawn condemnation from both Palestinians and Israeli officials. While Jordan criticized his remarks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office emphasized no change to the current policy.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the lack of control in Netanyahu’s government, while Palestinian officials and Hamas warned against any alterations to the status quo at Al-Aqsa. Ben-Gvir’s actions were deemed irresponsible and dangerous by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.
The minister’s controversial statements and visits have reignited tensions in the region, prompting calls for the protection of the holy site from Arab and Islamic countries. Ben-Gvir’s defiance serves as a flashpoint in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
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