Jordan, Palestinians Condemn Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Al-Aqsa Visit as Provocation

Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque/Temple Mount has sparked widespread condemnation from Jordan and Palestinian leaders, who regard it as a serious violation of international law and the sanctity of Islamic holy sites. Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the visit as an unacceptable provocation and escalation, emphasizing that Israel holds no sovereignty over the mosque compound and warning of broader consequences for Christian sites in Jerusalem. Palestinian groups condemned the visit as an aggressive act that threatens regional and international peace, calling for urgent international intervention. Despite Israeli government assurances that its policy on the site remains unchanged, footage suggesting Ben-Gvir prayed there heightened tensions during the sensitive period of Tisha B'av. Jordan and Palestinian officials insist that only Muslim prayer is permitted at the site and accuse the Israeli government of pursuing dangerous and unilateral policies facilitated by extremist figures like Ben-Gvir. The situation has raised calls from Palestinian leaders for the U.S. and the international community to intervene to prevent further escalation.