In a shocking turn of events, an early morning attack by Hamas on Saturday caught Israeli defense and intelligence forces off guard, triggering retaliatory strikes on the Gaza Strip by land and air. Hamas leaders claim that this surprise attack, which resulted in Israel’s deadliest day in decades, was a response to recent turmoil surrounding the al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and escalating settler aggression.
Known as the Temple Mount to Jews and the Noble Sanctuary to Muslims, this revered site holds profound significance for both faiths. Even the slightest alteration to its status quo has the potential to incite violence.
READ MORE:Â Gaza Erupts in Protest as Israeli Settlers Intrude Al-Aqsa Mosque during Sukkot Celebration
In early April, during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and just before the Jewish Passover holiday, Israeli police conducted a controversial raid on the site. Security officials had long warned that such actions could lead to further escalation. However, the current national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, a leader of Israel’s far-right religious nationalist movement, has been advocating for an increased Jewish presence on the Temple Mount. Ben Gvir is notorious for provocative actions asserting Jewish claims to Palestinian land and religious spaces, including his unprecedented visit to the religious compound in January.
The Significance of the Site:
The compound holds profound religious significance for Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike. For Jews, it is the holiest site in Judaism, with historical origins dating back to the First Temple built by King Solomon in the 10th century B.C. It symbolizes the connection between modern and ancient Israel. Additionally, Jews pray facing Jerusalem, particularly the Temple Mount, with the Western Wall serving as a focal point for Jewish prayer.
For Muslims, the Noble Sanctuary is the third-holiest site after Mecca and Medina. Al-Aqsa Mosque marks the place from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven after a miraculous journey. The mosque, built in the early 8th century A.D., stands on the southern part of the plaza, while the Dome of the Rock, an ornate Islamic shrine, graces the courtyard.
Control of the Compound:
Since Israel captured East Jerusalem from Jordan in 1967 and declared Jerusalem as its capital, an arrangement supervised by Jordan has managed the al-Aqsa compound. Israel maintains security authority at the site and a police presence but restricts non-Muslims from praying there.
A Flashpoint for Conflict:
The Temple Mount lies at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian struggle for control of Jerusalem. The city’s status remains a major obstacle to achieving a two-state solution, with al-Aqsa symbolizing the Palestinian quest for self-determination. Violations of the status quo have often led to aggression. Ariel Sharon’s visit to the site in 2000 triggered the second intifada, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. Recent incidents, such as the installation of metal detectors and the increasing presence of Israeli religious nationalists, have exacerbated tensions.
Far-right Minister’s Focus:
Itamar Ben Gvir’s provocative actions at the Temple Mount have raised concerns. As a key player in Israel’s most right-wing government, his visit in January was seen as an intentional provocation by Palestinian groups and Arab nations, potentially leading to further unrest. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office reaffirms commitment to the status quo, Ben Gvir advocates for change. Known for his extremist views, he has been convicted of inciting racism and supporting a terrorist group.
READMORE: Egypt calls for halting Israel escalation at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa complex – Middle East Monitor
Ben Gvir’s support for activists threatening to sacrifice a lamb in the al-Aqsa Mosque compound during Passover has also drawn attention. This move could disrupt the status quo and escalate regional tensions. The messianic “Returning to the Mount” movement has even offered rewards for such actions. With Ben Gvir controlling the police, detentions occurred in April for individuals suspected of planning to perform such sacrifices.
