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These images cause a stir in Israel and the Palestinian Territories - Itamar Ben-Gvir, Minister of National Security and member of the far-right Ozma Jehudit Party, visits the Temple Mount.
A provocation for many Palestinians.
Itamar Ben-Gvir, Minister of National Security
“The Israeli government will not yield to an organization of murderers, a despicable terrorist organization. (...)
We make it clear to Hamas that we will not give in, that we will not capitulate, that we will not bat an eyelid.«
Mohammad Abu Elhumous, resident of Jerusalem
“We were surprised during morning prayers when Israeli security forces prevented some people from entering Al-Aqsa Mosque. The mosque was surrounded by security forces and it seems the government knew Ben-Gvir was coming to Al-Aqsa Mosque.”
The Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam.
At the same time, the mountain above the Wailing Wall is also sacred in Judaism.
Jews are allowed to visit the facility, but not to pray there.
According to Ben-Gvir, this is "racist" and discriminatory against Jewish believers - now he apparently wants to send a signal of power.
The incident has exacerbated the already tense situation in the region since Israel's new right-wing religious coalition government, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, was sworn in last week — amid opposition protests.
Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
"We will guarantee Israel's military advantage in the region through constant reinforcements."
Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has previously been convicted of inciting and supporting a Jewish terrorist organization, is considered an extremist.
The Islamist Palestinian organization Hamas had warned against his visit to the Temple Mount and announced the consequences.
The second Palestinian uprising erupted in 2000 after Israeli opposition leader Ariel Sharon visited the site.
