ARAB COUNTRIES PROTEST BEN-GVIR’S VISIT TO AL-AQSA MOSQUE

Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, describing the move as a violation of the arrangements governing the sensitive holy site. Ben-Gvir entered the compound alongside groups of Jewish settlers under the protection of Israeli security forces, prompting renewed criticism from Arab governments over activities at the site.

Qatar described the visit as an unacceptable provocation against Muslims around the world and warned that such actions could contribute to further instability in the region. Saudi Arabia also condemned the incident and called on the international community to take action against what it described as unlawful practices involving Israeli officials and holy sites in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry described Ben-Gvir’s entry into the compound as a provocative act and a violation of international humanitarian law. The country also reiterated its support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, while calling for measures to prevent further violations at the holy site.

Jordan strongly criticised the incident, describing it as a violation of the historical and legal status quo at Al-Aqsa and a desecration of its sanctity. Amman warned against attempts to introduce new arrangements or divide the site according to access and worship, while maintaining that the entire 14.4-hectare compound is a Muslim place of worship administered by the Jordan-affiliated Jerusalem Islamic Waqf.

The condemnations came as 992 Israeli settlers reportedly entered the Al-Aqsa compound ahead of the Jewish observance of Yom Kippur, adding to concerns over increased visits during religious holidays. Separately, Hamas condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to excavation sites beneath the Al-Aqsa compound and the Al-Buraq Wall, saying the actions and accompanying statements challenged the site’s identity and status. The latest developments have again placed Al-Aqsa at the centre of tensions surrounding Jerusalem’s holy sites.