Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, centre, flanked by his security detail, approach the entrance to Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site on Aug. 13.Ohad Zwigenberg/The Associated Press
France condemned Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound on Tuesday, saying it was in violation of the historic status quo of the holy places in Jerusalem.
“This new provocation is unacceptable. France calls on the Israeli government to take all necessary measures to ensure respect for the historic status quo of the holy places in Jerusalem,” the French foreign ministry said in a statement.
Ben-Gvir said on Tuesday Jews should be allowed to pray at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, known to Jews as Temple Mount, launching a fresh challenge to rules covering one of the most sensitive sites in the Middle East.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States also opposed Ben-Gvir’s visit on Tuesday.
“These provocative actions only exacerbate tensions at a pivotal moment when all focus should be on the ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire agreement and secure the release of all hostages and create the conditions for broader regional stability,” Blinken said in a statement.