More than 4,000 Israelis stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

According to the Jerusalem Governorate of Palestine, on July 23, 4,288 Israeli settlers and members of far-right groups entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem. It was noted that their number could reach 5,000 by the end of the day. Al Jazeera reported on this.

 

Among them was Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who entered the area under reinforced police escort. The visit was made on the occasion of the Jewish mourning day of Tisha B'Av.

 

Palestinian officials stated that Israeli security forces imposed strict restrictions at the gates of the Al-Aqsa compound, prevented many Palestinian worshippers and students from entering the area, and used force against some.

 

According to the Jerusalem Governorate, inside the compound, some Israelis performed Talmudic rituals, prostrated, sang songs, and prayed. Israeli media reported that the police allowed over a thousand Jews to pray in the area.

 

In accordance with the status quo established in 1967, non-Muslims are permitted to visit the Al-Aqsa compound, but praying there is prohibited.

 

During his visit on the occasion of Tisha B'Av, Ben-Gvir stated that Jews "feel like owners" in this area, assessing the situation as a "great achievement."

 

The Palestinian Presidency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assessed these actions as a violation of international law and a dangerous escalation aimed at changing the historical and legal status of the Al-Aqsa compound.

 

The Hamas movement also condemned the raids, stating that such actions would not go without consequences. The Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called Ben-Gvir's visit "a desecration of the mosque's sanctity, an escalation, and an unacceptable provocation," urging the international community to pressure Israel.