More than 2,300 right-wing Israelis entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem on July 12, 2024 [1].
The event marks a significant escalation in tensions over the holy site, as the incursion occurred while Palestinian worshippers were barred from entering the compound.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and various settler activists led the group into the compound under the protection of Israeli police [2]. The entry took place during Tisha B’Av, a Jewish fast day [3]. While the right-wing groups entered, Israeli security forces prevented Palestinian worshippers from accessing the site [2].
Palestinian officials said the incursion was an attempt to undermine the long-standing status quo governing the mosque compound [4]. In contrast, far-right groups said they were protesting restrictions and asserting Jewish religious rights [4].
Chaos erupted as far-right Israelis confronted other Israelis and Palestinians during the event [3]. Israeli authorities arrested 26 Palestinians during the incident [5].
The Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the holiest sites in Islam and remains a central flashpoint in the conflict over Jerusalem. The presence of high-ranking government officials, such as Ben-Gvir, alongside settler activists, has increased concerns regarding the stability of the site's administration.
“More than 2,300 right-wing Israelis entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound”
This incident represents a direct challenge to the 'status quo' agreement, which has historically regulated prayer and access at the Al-Aqsa compound to prevent religious conflict. By facilitating large-scale entries of right-wing activists and government ministers while restricting Palestinian access, the Israeli government risks further destabilizing the region and inciting broader unrest in East Jerusalem.
