Israeli Knesset member Itamar Ben-Gvir’s visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque and his statements have drawn a strong reaction in the Palestinian territories. Ben-Gvir’s visit has been subject to harsh criticism on the grounds that he supports extremist Zionist policies.
Ben-Gvir’s statements in front of the Al-Aqsa Mosque were interpreted as “part of the extremist Zionist government’s efforts to Judaize the Al-Aqsa Mosque.” The Palestinian people stated that they will stand against Israel’s violations of their lands and sanctities.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab League called for serious steps to be taken to stop the violations against the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the first Qiblah of Muslims and the third holiest mosque. Ben-Gvir’s visit has increased tensions and heightened tensions in the region.
Ben-Gvir’s Political Background and Controversies
Itamar Ben-Gvir is known as a member of the Kah movement, a Jewish supremacist terrorist organization banned in Israel. Known for his far-right policies and harsh rhetoric against Palestinians, Ben-Gvir is notable for his statements that the Al-Aqsa Mosque should be Judaized.
Ben-Gvir’s visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque and his statements have increased tensions in the region and have been condemned by the Palestinians and other Arab countries. Ben-Gvir’s political background is controversial in Israel and he has been criticized for his far-right policies.
Al-Aqsa Mosque and Its Historical Importance
Located in occupied East Jerusalem, the Al-Aqsa Mosque is important as the first qibla and third holiest mosque of Muslims. It serves as a complex that includes the Qibla Mosque, the Dome of the Rock, and several madrasahs.
Israel’s excavation work and Judaization efforts at the Al-Aqsa Mosque are causing tensions in the region. Jews’ defense of their right to worship at Al-Aqsa is causing reactions between Palestinians and Muslims.
In 2000, former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque led to prolonged conflict in the region and ignited the fuse of the “second intifada.”
