Saudi Arabia Expresses Outrage Over Ben-Gvir's Proposal to Construct Synagogue Atop Al-Aqsa Mosque

Stalled Progress Towards Restoration of Official Relations

Saudi Arabia and Israel have been rapidly progressing towards the restoration of official relations in recent years, a move that has been dubbed the 'deal of the century'. However, the Gaza war that erupted on October 7th has halted these efforts and threatens to derail the initiative completely.

Escalating Tensions Over Al-Aqsa Mosque

Tensions have heightened this week, as Muslims perceive the current Israeli policies towards the Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem as a severe threat and an insult to their faith. Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s hard-line Security Minister, has even suggested the construction of a synagogue on Islam's third holiest site.

Controversial Remarks Stirring Up Controversy

Ben-Gvir's comments were made during a Monday interview with Army Radio and have sparked immediate controversy. Some Israeli groups have condemned his remarks as unnecessarily inflammatory and unrealistic. Ben-Gvir stated during the interview that Jews should have unrestricted access to pray at the site of the Al-Aqsa mosque, which is located on what is known as Temple Mount and the Western Wall, a site sacred to Jews.

Potential Consequences of Building a Synagogue on the Site

The establishment of a synagogue or a new (third) temple on the site would necessitate the destruction of the Al Aqsa Mosque. This could potentially lead to Islamic uprisings in the region on such a large scale that it could trigger a broader war.

Reactions to Ben-Gvir's Statements

Ben-Gvir publicly stated, "If I could do anything I wanted, I would put an Israeli flag on the site," during the interview. When asked repeatedly by a journalist if he would construct a synagogue at the site if it were his decision, Ben-Gvir finally replied, "Yes."

Saudi Arabia swiftly condemned these "extremist" words. An official statement read, "The kingdom affirms its categorical rejection of these extremist and inflammatory statements and its rejection of the continuous provocations of the feelings of Muslims around the world." The kingdom emphasized the need to respect the historical and legal status quo of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and called on the international community to put an end to the humanitarian disaster that the Palestinian people are enduring.

Other regional governments, particularly Turkey, also condemned the Israeli national security minister's remarks.

Saudi Arabia's Role in Islamic Issues

The Saudi kingdom, which oversees the two holiest sites in Islam, Mecca and Medina, and hosts annual Haj (pilgrimage) events, often acts as a global spokesperson for broader Islamic issues.

Bottom Line

It's clear that the proposed construction of a synagogue atop the Al-Aqsa Mosque has stirred controversy and heightened tensions in the region. The potential implications of such a move are far-reaching and could lead to significant unrest. What are your thoughts on this sensitive issue? Share this article with your friends and let's get a conversation started. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.