The recent visit of Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gabir to the Temple Mount on August 13 has sparked significant international controversy, especially from the United States. Ben Gabir's visit, which coincided with the Tisha B'Av fast, has been described by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken as a 'blatant disregard for the status quo' concerning the historical and religious sensitivities of the site. The Temple Mount, known as Haram al-Sharif in the Muslim tradition, is a focal point of tensions in the region, and actions perceived as provocative can escalate conflicts.
In response to the visit, Blinken emphasized the U.S. administration's commitment to preserving the historical status quo at the holy sites in Jerusalem. He stated that such actions undermine efforts for peace and stability in the region, particularly at a time when diplomatic efforts are underway to achieve a ceasefire and address the humanitarian situation. Prime Minister Netanyahu's office has distanced itself from Ben Gabir's actions, indicating they do not align with Israeli policy. This response suggests a potential rift within the Israeli government regarding approaches to sensitive religious sites.
