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Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir sparked international outrage by leading Jewish prayers at Jerusalem's Al Aqsa Mosque compound, a site where Jewish worship is prohibited under a longstanding agreement. This action, on the Jewish day of mourning Tisha B'Av, violates the status quo agreement and has been condemned by Palestine, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Hamas. Ben Gvir also called for Israel to conquer Gaza and encourage Palestinian emigration. While the Israeli Prime Minister's Office claims its policy hasn't changed, Ben Gvir's actions are seen as a significant escalation of tensions.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.