Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s visit to the Temple Mount on Tuesday “demonstrated blatant disregard for the historic status quo with respect to the holy sites in Jerusalem,” according to Antony Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state.
“These provocative actions only exacerbate tensions at a pivotal moment when all focus should be on the ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire agreement and secure the release of all hostages and create the conditions for broader regional stability,” Blinken said.
The U.S. secretary’s statement referred to “Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount.” The Arabic refers to the site from which Muslims believe that the prophet Muhammad, who was born around the year 570 and died in 632, went on a miraculous journey. Jews call the site Har Habayit, recognizing it as the location of the First and Second Temples, starting in the 10th century before the Common Era.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “has made clear that the actions of Minister Ben Gvir are inconsistent with Israeli policy,” Blinken said. “We will look to the government of Israel to prevent similar incidents in the future.”
“The United States reaffirms our commitment to the preservation of the historic status quo and will continue to oppose unilateral steps that are counterproductive to achieving peace and stability and undermine Israel’s security,” he added.
