Story perspectives

Arab League, OIC, AU Condemn Israeli Minister's Al-Aqsa Visit

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and African Union condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem as a violation of international norms.
Ben-Gvir, under police protection, offered Jewish prayers at the site, drawing criticism from Jordan and the Palestinian Authority.
Ben-Gvir has made 16 visits since taking office in 2022, pushing for greater Jewish access and changes to the status quo.

History

Historical Context

The 1929 Palestine riots erupted over access to the Western Wall, resulting in 133 Jewish and 116 Arab deaths amid escalating tensions between communities. The British Mandate struggled to maintain order. Itamar Ben-Gvir's recent actions at the Al-Aqsa Mosque reflect this historical conflict, threatening the fragile status quo established since then and highlighting the ongoing volatility surrounding Jerusalem's religious sites.

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Story summary

The Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and African Union condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem as a violation of international norms.
Ben-Gvir, under police protection, offered Jewish prayers at the site, drawing criticism from Jordan and the Palestinian Authority.
Ben-Gvir has made 16 visits since taking office in 2022, pushing for greater Jewish access and changes to the status quo.

1 / 2