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Israeli Minister's Al-Aqsa Visit Sparks Regional Tensions

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 12, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and pressed for Jewish access.
He said he felt like 'the owner' of the site, provoking Jordan's condemnation as a status quo violation.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's office warned such provocations could destabilize the region.
There were no immediate signs of unrest, and Netanyahu's office has not commented, though he has previously reaffirmed the status quo.

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Story summary

On April 12, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and pressed for Jewish access.
He said he felt like 'the owner' of the site, provoking Jordan's condemnation as a status quo violation.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's office warned such provocations could destabilize the region.
There were no immediate signs of unrest, and Netanyahu's office has not commented, though he has previously reaffirmed the status quo.