Key Points
- Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Temple Mount (Al-Aqsa Mosque compound) in Jerusalem to mark the Jewish fast day of Tisha B’Av.
- Ben-Gvir claimed a significant shift in the status quo, stating that Jews are now praying openly at the site and acting as its “masters.”
- The visit and comments are highly controversial, as the site is a flashpoint for tensions and non-Muslim prayer is traditionally restricted under long-standing agreements.
- The minister also asserted that his policies have reduced terrorism by 85% and vowed to further strengthen Israeli sovereignty over the land.
Full Transcript (English)
Narrator (Text Overlay): Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of Israel’s far-right “Otzma Yehudit” party and Minister of National Security, visited the Temple Mount (Al-Aqsa Mosque compound) and offered prayers on the fast day commemorating the destruction of the Temple. Originally, this is a holy site where the activities of non-Muslims are restricted.
Itamar Ben-Gvir: Tisha B’Av is a day to mourn the destruction of the Temple. However, a massive advancement is currently taking place here on the Temple Mount. Look at what is happening here; Jews are praying and feeling like the masters of this place. This has never happened before.
The same thing is happening in many other locations as well. We have reduced terrorism by 85%. In every place, it is being understood that the State of Israel is the master of this land. There is still more work to be done. With God’s help, we will continue to move forward.
