New Delhi: In a highly charged and controversial event, Israeli settlers, accompanied by ultranationalist minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, performed religious prostration inside the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem. The act took place under the heavy protection of Israeli occupation forces, further escalating tensions in the region.The incident occurred as the settlers, supported by well-armed Israeli forces, entered the sacred site, which is revered by Muslims worldwide. The presence of Ben-Gvir, a far-right minister known for his provocative stances, added fuel to the already volatile situation. His participation in the event was seen as an endorsement of the settlers actions, which many view as a deliberate provocation.AL-Aqsas flashpointAl-Aqsa Mosque has long been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the latest incident has drawn sharp condemnation from Palestinian leaders and Muslim communities globally. They argue that such actions undermine the sanctity of the holy site and violate the status quo that governs religious practices there.The prostration by the settlers is particularly significant as it is viewed by many as an assertion of Israeli sovereignty over the site, which is also home to the Dome of the Rock and is considered the third holiest site in Islam. The move has been condemned as a blatant provocation that could further inflame tensions in an already fragile situation.This incident is likely to intensify the already strained relations between Israelis and Palestinians, with the international community closely watching the developments.
