Over 2,300 Israelis storm Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, minister joins visit

Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a flashpoint for Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saw a significant surge in Israeli visitors on Tuesday. More than 2,300 Israelis, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, stormed the site. The group comprised settlers and far-right activists who entered the compound under heavy police protection.

The mosque, known to Muslims as Al-Aqsa and to Jews as the Temple Mount, is one of the holiest sites in Islam and Judaism. Its administration is controlled by Jordan, but Israel manages security. The site has frequently been the scene of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli forces.

Minister Ben-Gvir's participation in the visit underscores the Israeli government's stance on the contested holy site. Such incursions often provoke strong reactions from Palestinians and the wider Arab world, raising concerns about further escalation of tensions in the region.