Israeli Minister’s al-Aqsa Prayer Sparks Diplomatic Tensions and Regional Backlash

On Sunday, August 3, 2025, Israel’s hardline National Security Minister Itamar BenGvir sparked widespread outrage after visiting the alAqsa mosque compound in East Jerusalem—known to Jews as the Temple Mount—and publicly praying there, in direct defiance of the longstanding “status quo.” Under this delicate arrangement, Jews are permitted to visit the site but not to pray. During the visit, BenGvir led a group of over 1,200 individuals who sang, danced, and performed Jewish rituals under police protection, a considerable escalation from previous years. The delegation marked Tisha B’Av, the Jewish fast day commemorating the destruction of the ancient Temples.

The visit triggered immediate condemnation from regional and international actors. Jordan, which administers the site through the Waqf, called the act a “flagrant violation of international law” and an “unacceptable provocation.” Saudi Arabia joined the denunciation, warning that such actions intensify regional conflict. Palestinian officials described the incident as crossing “all red lines,” demanding urgent international intervention.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed that Israeli policy remains unchanged and that the status quo at alAqsa would be maintained. Nevertheless, videos attributed to a fringe activist group showed BenGvir and supporters leading a procession and praying inside, though Reuters noted it could not independently verify some footage. BenGvir himself stated his prayers were for Israel’s victory over Hamas and for the release of hostages, and reiterated his demand for Israel to “conquer the entire Gaza Strip” to ensure success in the ongoing conflict.

This episode follows previous protests by BenGvir over Jewish prayer rights at the holy site, though prior intercessions had not escalated to worship inside the compound. Analysts warn the new breach may fatally unravel the decadesold arrangement designed to reduce friction over Jerusalem’s most sensitive shrine. No immediate violence was reported, but antiquated tensions strained significantly.

Sources: Reuters, the guardian, BBC News