Palestinian Ministry Warns of Rising Israeli Incitement Targeting Al-Aqsa Mosque
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - The Palestinian Ministry of Endowments has issued a stark warning regarding increasing Israeli extremist actions aimed at Al-Aqsa Mosque, following a provocative video from the group “Temple Mount Activists.”
The Palestinian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs on Thursday cautioned against escalating Israeli incitement directed at Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third holiest site.
This response followed the release of a video by the Israeli extremist group "Temple Mount Activists," which showed Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock in flames, with captions suggesting that such destruction was imminent.
The ministry highlighted a surge in hostility and threats toward Islamic holy sites, describing them as more overt and dangerous than ever before. It stressed that these provocations, rooted in myths and distortions, are being increasingly voiced openly.
The ministry accused the Israeli government and security forces of providing political and security support to these extremists, facilitating their regular incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Calling for international intervention, the ministry urged global leaders to halt these provocations, which it says are bolstered by the Israeli government. It also encouraged Jerusalem’s residents to remain vigilant and maintain a steady presence at the mosque to counter extremist plans.
Earlier this week, the ministry reported that Israeli settlers had stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque 21 times in August alone.
The video posted by “Temple Mount Activists” depicted a large fire near the Dome of the Rock, with captions suggesting an impending victory. The group advocates for the construction of a temple in place of Al-Aqsa and supports regular incursions by extremists.
Israeli ministers, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, have occasionally visited the mosque, drawing widespread international criticism.
In August, Ben-Gvir called for Jewish prayer rights in Al-Aqsa and the establishment of a synagogue within its courtyards.
In recent weeks, there has been a rise in provocative religious rituals by Israeli extremists at the site.
Palestinians accuse Israel of attempting to Judaize East Al-Quds including Al-Aqsa Mosque, erasing its Arab and Islamic identity, while insisting that East Al-Quds remain the capital of their future state.
Far-right Israeli groups continue to push for the replacement of Al-Aqsa Mosque with a temple, driving frequent incursions into the site.