A visit by far-right Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem has drawn regional condemnation as hospitals in Gaza reported that 33 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire while seeking aid. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in a region already fraught with conflict.
On Sunday, Ben-Gvir led Jewish prayers at the controversial site, known as the Temple Mount to Jews and the Noble Sanctuary to Muslims. This location is considered the most sacred in Judaism and is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third-holiest site in Islam. His visit, the latest in a series of provocative actions, has raised concerns that it could exacerbate an already volatile situation.
The backdrop to the minister’s visit includes a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Israeli military actions have led to significant loss of life and severe shortages of food and medical supplies. Reports indicate that hospitals in the region are overwhelmed, with medical professionals warning of a potential famine.
Ben-Gvir, during his visit, called for the annexation of the Gaza Strip and suggested that Palestinians should be encouraged to leave, reviving rhetoric that complicates the peace process. His statements follow the release of distressing videos by Hamas, showing hostages suffering in captivity, which have intensified public pressure on the Israeli government to negotiate their release.
The official Israeli stance maintains that non-Muslim prayer at the site is not permitted, and the government has expressed its commitment to uphold the longstanding status quo. Nevertheless, Ben-Gvir’s actions have drawn swift condemnation from Palestinian leaders and international officials, including statements from Jordan, which oversees the site, as well as Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
In response to the situation in Gaza, the International Committee of the Red Cross expressed deep concern over the conditions faced by hostages, calling for urgent access to provide them with food and medical care. The organization described the released videos as “harrowing” and a reflection of the urgent humanitarian needs.
Meanwhile, violence has erupted at aid distribution sites in Gaza, with reports of Israeli forces opening fire on crowds seeking food. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society confirmed that one of its staff members was killed during an incident involving shelling of its office. The Israeli military has stated it is reviewing these claims but has not acknowledged any casualties resulting from its actions.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering death toll. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported that over 60,800 Palestinians have died since the outbreak of hostilities, a figure that includes both combatants and civilians. The United Nations has called for a significant increase in humanitarian aid, stating that 500 to 600 trucks of supplies are needed daily to address the crisis.
As the region navigates through this turbulent period, the implications of political actions and military strategies continue to resonate, impacting the lives of millions and complicating the path toward peace.
