Ben Gvir Visits Al-Aqsa Amid Intensified Israeli Raids in West Bank

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir made an appearance at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem on Wednesday. This visit comes amid ongoing operations and heightened security measures by Israeli forces throughout the West Bank.

During his entry into the sacred site, Ben-Gvir offered prayers aimed at securing “victory in the conflict, the eradication of Hamas, and the safe return of the hostages.”

A statement was made emphasizing their claim over the Temple Mount, accompanied by a call for decisive actions in Gaza. The speaker expressed a desire for the Prime Minister to ensure a complete triumph against Hamas, aiming for the release of hostages and achieving full victory, with a hopeful nod to divine support.

Sheikh Ikrima Sabri, the Preacher of Al-Aqsa Mosque, has issued a warning regarding a potential increase in Israeli incursions and violations at Al-Aqsa in the near future.

Israeli authorities have enforced a stringent blockade on the city of Al-Quds, effectively isolating it from its surrounding areas, according to statements reported by Palestinian media.

Under the current arrangement that has been in effect since Israeli forces took control of East Jerusalem in 1967, only Muslims are permitted to conduct prayers at the site. The location is overseen by an Islamic endowment, or Waqf, while security is managed by Israeli forces.

Ben-Gvir has consistently breached the agreement since becoming a member of the Israeli cabinet, while enforcement by the occupation has become more lenient. Occupation forces have consistently supported ministers and Zionist settlers engaging in such provocative actions.

On Wednesday, Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on a young Palestinian man in Tarqumiyah, located west of Hebron in the southern region of the occupied West Bank, as reported by the Wafa news agency.

According to the report, a 24-year-old individual sustained a leg injury from Israeli gunfire in the vicinity of the separation wall. The injured party was subsequently transported to a hospital, where medical personnel assessed the injury as moderate.

Occupation forces persist in their raids and arrest operations throughout the West Bank.

Palestinian media outlets have reported the detention and interrogation of numerous Palestinians during a series of raids. The operations occurred in various locations, including the town of Hizma, situated northeast of Al-Quds; the village of At-Tahta, west of Ramallah; the Arroub refugee camp in the Al-Khalil governorate; the town of Beit Fajjar, south of Bethlehem; and the city of Tulkarem.

In another development in Nablus, Israeli forces have bolstered their presence in the Balata refugee camp following the infiltration by a special Israeli unit. Palestinian media reports indicate that at least one Palestinian sustained injuries during the operation.