Before the controversial visit to the Temple Mount by the new Israeli police minister, the Islamist Hamas had threatened. Indeed, Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip tried to fire a rocket at Israel – but to no avail.
Following the controversial visit to the Temple Mount by the new Israeli police minister, Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip attempted to launch a rocket into Israel. The rocket launch on Tuesday night failed, however, the Israeli military said. It landed on the Gaza Strip. Initially, there were no reports of injuries or even deaths.
Despite the warnings, Israel’s Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Temple Mount in Jerusalem for the first time since taking office. Palestinian militant groups in the Gaza Strip have spoken of a “dangerous escalation and provocation” and warned of a “religious war” in the region.
The Temple Mount (Al-Haram al-Sharif) with the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in Islam. But it is also sacred to Jews because there used to be two Jewish temples there. The Temple Mount is under Muslim administration, while Israel is responsible for security. According to an agreement with the Muslim authorities, Jews are allowed to visit the premises but not to pray there. However, there are always violations.
Ben-Gvir criticized this agreement as “racist” and as discrimination against Jews. Palestinians accused Israel of wanting to expand its control over the holy site.
The visit caused irritation in the United States. Criticism also came from France, Saudi Arabia and many other countries.
Ben-Gvir, of the far right Ozma Jehudit, is considered a political firebrand, especially where Palestinians are concerned. He is part of Benjamin Netanyahu’s new right-wing religious government.
(APA/dpa)