Story perspectives

Ben-Gvir Declares Israel Masters of Temple Mount During Sukkot

By Drooid · Oct 2, 2026, 8:05 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Minister Itamar Ben Gvir proclaimed Israel the masters of the Temple Mount during Sukkot.
A record 8,690 Jews, including rabbis and Knesset members, visited the Mount during Sukkot.
Over 1,100 Jews ascended the Temple Mount on Hol Hamoed’s first day, praying openly.
Police permitted a trial of printed prayer books on the Temple Mount earlier this year.
Participants carried the Four Species up the Mount during Sukkot prayers despite bans.

History

Historical Context

Today's ascent of 8,690 Jews led by Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir echoes earlier challenges to the Temple Mount status-quo. After Israel seized the site in June 1967, a meeting granted Jews access but barred prayer; Chief Rabbi Shlomo Goren defied this in 1970, bringing 50 followers and a shofar, sparking a clash with Waqf authorities that foreshadowed later confrontations.

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Story summary

Minister Itamar Ben Gvir proclaimed Israel the masters of the Temple Mount during Sukkot.
A record 8,690 Jews, including rabbis and Knesset members, visited the Mount during Sukkot.
Over 1,100 Jews ascended the Temple Mount on Hol Hamoed’s first day, praying openly.
Police permitted a trial of printed prayer books on the Temple Mount earlier this year.
Participants carried the Four Species up the Mount during Sukkot prayers despite bans.

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