Israel’s National Security Minister Ignites Global Outrage with Al-Aqsa Visit

August 4-Kolkata, India: On Sunday, Ben-Gvir, the National Security Minister of Israel, visited the mosque compound in Jerusalem, which triggered strong and negative reactions from several countries for violating international rules and traditions.

Ben-Gvir allegedly offered prayers within the sacred spot while about 1,250 people and police surrounded him. This action allegedly breaks a sensitive and long-standing “status quo” agreement that permits Jews to visit the al-Aqsa compound but not pray there. An Islamic authority from Jordan oversees the site.

Saudi Arabia criticized Ben-Gvir’s visit

The Saudi Foreign Minister strongly criticized the visit of Israel’s National Security Minister and called it a violation of international law. He posted a message on X stating that “The Kingdom strongly condemns the repeated provocative actions by Israeli officials against al-Aqsa mosque.”

Jordan calls it a Harrassment

Jordan, who are the official representatives of the site also criticized Ben-Gvir’s visit. The Foreign ministry reported “Ben-Gvir’s actions as a blatant violation of international law and an unacceptable provocation and escalation.” They further added that The visit calls into question the compound’s legal and historic status.

The Palestinian officials also reported that on Sunday, the Israeli forces killed 27 people on the spot while they were trying to get food. They also added that extreme starvation and malnutrition caused six more people to die.

Israel remains silent on the situation

In response to the strong negative reactions from several countries, the office of Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that “there has been no change in Israel’s policy. Israel’s commitment to maintaining the status quo on the Temple Mount remains unchanged.”

Critics critiqued Ben-Gvir’s visit further despite this promise, especially since he prayed at the location, which Jews also revere as the Temple Mount—something that the current arrangement expressly forbids.