Israeli officials accused of pushing changes to Al-Aqsa Mosque status amid rising tensions

JERUSALEM – Hardline Israeli officials and far-right political figures are facing allegations that they are attempting to alter the historical and legal status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, reportedly with support from certain circles in the United States. The international media reported that the discussions are underway within some Israeli political and activist groups regarding a proposal to reclassify the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound as a “multi-faith place of worship.” The Arab leaders warned that such a move would challenge the long-standing arrangement under which the site is administered by the Islamic Waqf under Jordanian custodianship. Under the current status quo, non-Muslim visitors are permitted to enter the compound but are not allowed to perform religious rituals there. The reports further suggested that some far-right Israeli politicians are advocating for expanding Jewish religious practices within the compound. Israeli right-wing leader Moshe Feiglin recently visited the site, where he reportedly performed religious chants and called for the establishment of a new place of worship within the compound. Separately, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has also made multiple visits to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, drawing strong objections from Palestinian and Arab leaders. In recent videos, he has been seen raising the Israeli flag and making statements asserting Israeli claims over the site. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied any plans to change the existing status of the holy site. However, Palestinian authorities, Jordan, and several regional actors have expressed serious concern over the reports. Deputy head of the Islamic Waqf Council, Dr. Mustafa Abu Sway, warned that any attempt to alter the current status of Al-Aqsa could endanger regional stability. He said interference in the status of the mosque could further escalate tensions across the Middle East. Meanwhile, the tensions have also intensi