Jerusalem: Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, known for his far-right extremist views, entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Monday evening through the Mughrabi Gate, heavily guarded by Israeli occupation forces.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem reported that Ben-Gvir toured the mosque's courtyards, entering through the Mughrabi Gate and making his way to the Chain Gate before retracing his steps, all while under the protection of a significant number of occupation police. The Waqf further noted that Israeli forces intensified their military presence around the Al-Aqsa Mosque and shut the gates of Jerusalem's Old City during this incursion.
This incident is part of a broader pattern, as colonist groups have increasingly called for more incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Ben-Gvir has reportedly stormed the mosque approximately 14 times since taking office in 2023, reflecting a growing policy trend towards the site.
Israeli authorities have maintained the closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for 38 consecutive days, citing a "state of emergency" and security concerns. This prolonged closure is seen by many as an effort by occupation forces to strengthen their control over the mosque, amidst rising calls from local and popular groups to challenge the siege by mobilizing at nearby military checkpoints and barriers in a bid to force the reopening of the religious sites.
