Ben-Gvir Joins Mass Entry Into Al-Aqsa, Says Jews 'Feel Like the Owners'

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir entered Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa compound on July 23, 2026, with police protection and Likud lawmakers. Over 2,300 settlers joined, performing prayers barred by the site's status quo — the agreed rules governing worship access. Ben-Gvir told Haaretz Jews there "feel like the owners." Palestinian officials called it a state-backed escalation.