Far-Right Minister's Controversial Visit to Jerusalem's Holy Site Amid Ceasefire Talks

Israel's far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site on Thursday morning, threatening to disrupt Gaza ceasefire talks.

Ben-Gvir, an ultranationalist settler leader, said his visit to the contested Al Aqsa Mosque compound was to pray for the return of hostages “but without a reckless deal.” The move, while legal, raises tensions and threatens the delicate negotiations aimed at reaching a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Jerusalem hilltop compound is claimed by both Jews and Muslims, making such visits highly provocative and escalating the already sensitive situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)