Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Enters Al-Aqsa Mosque for Talmudic Rituals
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JERUSALEM — Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Saturday morning under heavy police escort to conduct Talmudic rituals, a move that has intensified tensions in the holy site shared by Muslims and Jews.
Ben-Gvir arrived at the entrance to the compound, known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and to Jews as the Temple Mount, at approximately 8:48 a.m. local time. He was accompanied by a large contingent of Israeli security forces, including police and Border Police units, who formed a protective perimeter around the minister as he walked toward the mosque. The visit took place on April 12, 2026, during a period of heightened sensitivity regarding access to the site.
The minister proceeded to perform rituals associated with Talmudic traditions within the mosque grounds. Palestinian officials and Islamic authorities condemned the entry, stating that non-Muslims are prohibited from praying or conducting religious ceremonies inside the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Waqf, the Islamic trust responsible for managing the site, issued a statement calling the visit a violation of the status quo and a provocation.
Israeli security forces maintained a tight grip on the area throughout the visit, restricting access to other worshippers and journalists. The heavy police presence was visible from the surrounding streets, with officers positioned at key entry points to the compound. The visit occurred without reported immediate violence, though the atmosphere remained tense.
Palestinian leaders have long viewed the Al-Aqsa Mosque as the third holiest site in Islam, and any changes to access or religious practices there are seen as direct challenges to Muslim sovereignty over the site. The visit by Ben-Gvir, a right-wing politician known for his support of Jewish claims to the Temple Mount, has drawn sharp criticism from Arab nations and international observers.
The Israeli government has not issued an official statement regarding the purpose or implications of the visit. However, Ben-Gvir’s office confirmed that the minister entered the site to perform religious rituals. The visit is expected to be a focal point in ongoing diplomatic discussions regarding the status of Jerusalem and the rights of worshippers at the site.
As of Saturday afternoon, the situation at the Al-Aqsa Mosque remained calm, but the long-term impact of the visit on regional stability remains uncertain. Questions persist regarding future access for Jewish visitors and the potential for increased friction at the site. The Israeli police have not announced any changes to security protocols, but the incident is likely to be reviewed by security officials in the coming days.