Israeli Minister Ben Gvir Provokes Religious Tensions by Demanding Hamas’ Destruction at Sensitive Holy Site

On the fragile stage of Middle Eastern diplomacy, where every move is weighted with consequence, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir made a bold and contentious statement—literally and symbolically—by appearing at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound to pray for “the victory in the war, the destruction of Hamas, and the return of hostages.” The timing could hardly be more provocative. This act coincided with Sucot, a Jewish festival celebrated on sacred grounds that are among Islam’s holiest sites. Yet by praying there—contrary to the established status quo which restricts Muslim-only worship on this sensitive plateau—Ben Gvir not only challenged long-standing...