Controversy Sparks as Far-Right Israeli Minister Visits Al-Aqsa Compound

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem calls for 'complete victory' over Hamas. His actions and statements at the sensitive site evoke tensions amidst ongoing negotiations for hostage release with Hamas, sparking potential controversy and unrest.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a prominent figure in Israel's far-right political landscape, has made a controversial visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem. His presence there, and subsequent call for a 'complete victory' over Hamas, comes two years after the 2023 Hamas attack, highlighting ongoing tensions around this sensitive site.

Positioned at the conflict's epicenter, Ben-Gvir's visit coincides with indirect negotiations in Egypt aimed at freeing Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. As head of the nationalist-religious Jewish Power party, Ben-Gvir's hardline stance puts pressure on Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition government, underlining his commitment to defeating Hamas completely.

His actions challenge the established 'status quo' of the Al-Aqsa compound, a site sacred in both Islam and Judaism. Any perceived changes to its administration have historically catalyzed unrest across the Muslim world, a risk further emphasized by Ben-Gvir's presence and demands.

(With inputs from agencies.)