A major incursion into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem took place this week as the Palestinian Authority reported that the number of Israeli participants could reach approximately 5,000 by sunset Thursday. The visit coincided with Tisha B’Av, a Jewish observance marking the destruction of ancient Jewish temples, though Orthodox Jewish tradition has traditionally prohibited entry to the compound.
The incursion was notable for the participation of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who entered under heavy police protection. Israeli participants engaged in prayer, singing, and flag-raising within the compound, while Ben-Gvir made statements to media emphasizing Jewish presence at the site. This marks at least his sixteenth visit to Al-Aqsa since assuming his ministerial position. Palestinian officials and international observers have expressed concern that such visits represent efforts to alter the longstanding arrangements governing the site, which is considered a Palestinian national symbol in addition to its religious significance.
The timing of the incursion reflects broader political dynamics as national elections approach in October. Analysts characterized the visit as a calculated move to appeal to far-right voters, with Ben-Gvir’s base comprising increasingly prominent settlers and right-wing activists. Israeli authorities implemented heightened security measures throughout occupied East Jerusalem, restricting Palestinian access to the compound and tightening movement checkpoints. Local media reported arrests of 16 Jewish suspects related to damage at a Muslim cemetery and incidents involving violence against Palestinians.
Commentators noted that the incursion exemplifies escalating rhetoric from the far-right as the election campaign intensifies. Recent weeks have seen additional provocative actions, including settler marches to Gaza’s perimeter and statements from government officials referencing Palestinian “voluntary emigration” from Gaza. Political analysts suggested the election campaign environment would likely generate further tensions and provocative actions targeting both the West Bank and Gaza.
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