Jerusalem (HRNW)- Regional tensions have intensified after more than 2,300 Israeli settlers entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Jerusalem under the protection of Israeli security forces.
According to the Islamic Waqf (Islamic Endowment), all of the settlers entered the mosque compound under strict security arrangements. Reports also said that Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Al-Aqsa compound during the incident.
Palestinian authorities alleged that Israeli forces imposed strict restrictions at the entrances to the mosque, prevented many Palestinian worshippers from entering, turned away several students, and mistreated some worshippers.
The Jerusalem Governorate under the Palestinian Authority described Itamar Ben-Gvir’s visit as a highly dangerous provocation, claiming it reflected official Israeli support for the activities of extremist groups.
Meanwhile, Jordan strongly condemned the incident. Jordanian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Fawaz Al-Majali said that any violation of the historical and legal status of Al-Aqsa Mosque is unacceptable and called on the international community to pressure Israel to halt actions affecting Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.
The Palestinian group Hamas also condemned the large-scale entry of Israeli settlers into the compound, warning that any attempt to violate the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque would be met with a strong response. The group said the Palestinian people and resistance forces would not remain silent over actions targeting their holy sites.
The development comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, with the status of Al-Aqsa Mosque remaining a focal point of international concern and diplomatic attention.
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