Jerusalem Islamic Leader Urges West to Pressure Israel on Al-Aqsa

Middle Eastern outlets present Ben-Gvir’s repeated entries to Al-Aqsa during a weeks-long closure as a deliberate provocation backed by the Israeli state. They say Israel is using ‘selective’ and ‘discriminatory’ restrictions to weaken Muslim control over the compound while easing access for Jewish settlers and far-right politicians. They expect stronger pressure from Arab, Muslim and Western governments will be needed to stop further incursions and prevent changes to long-standing arrangements at the site.

• •Itamar Ben-Gvir’s escorted visits to Al-Aqsa during the closure are described as attempts to assert Israeli control over the compound.
• •Israeli police and security forces are accused of blocking many Palestinian worshippers from entering Al-Aqsa while allowing Jewish visitors and officials through.
• •Arab governments, including Saudi Arabia, are said to view the minister’s actions as a direct insult to Muslim holy places.
• •Regional commentators warn that reopening Al-Aqsa to organised settler visits could inflame tensions across the occupied Palestinian territories and neighbouring countries.
• •Jerusalem’s top Islamic official is reported to be calling on Western capitals to tell Israel not to interfere with existing religious arrangements at Al-Aqsa.