In a move that could jeopardize ceasefire talks, Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, paid a visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem’s Old City. This sensitive location has been a flashpoint for Israeli-Palestinian tensions, with the Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemning Ben-Gvir’s visit as a “provocative intrusion.”
Located in the Al-Aqsa compound, the mosque holds significant religious importance for both Muslims and Jews. Under the current status quo, non-Muslims are allowed to visit but not pray at the site. However, recent instances of Jewish visitors defying this ban have raised concerns among Palestinians who fear an attempt by Israel to take over the area.
Hamas has condemned Ben-Gvir’s visit as a “dangerous escalation” and called on Islamic organizations to intervene to prevent further violations of the holy site. Meanwhile, truce talks have hit a roadblock as Hamas has temporarily withdrawn from negotiations in response to recent Israeli strikes on Gaza.
As the Israeli military offensive in Gaza intensifies, the death toll continues to rise, with 54 Palestinians reported killed in just 24 hours. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has visited Israeli troops in the Rafah area, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the release of captives held by Hamas.
With tensions escalating and no end to the conflict in sight, the region remains on edge as the world watches closely for any developments in the ongoing crisis.
