Israel's far-right national security minister visited Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site on Thursday morning, raising concerns about potential disruptions to Gaza cease-fire talks. Itamar Ben-Gvir, an ultranationalist settler leader, stated that he went to the contested Jerusalem hilltop compound of Al Aqsa Mosque to pray for the return of hostages, but emphasized the need for caution in any potential agreements.
Ben-Gvir's visit coincided with ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas to reach a cease-fire in the 9-month-old conflict. His public statements indicated a desire to pressure Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resist international pressure and continue the military campaign in Gaza.
