Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considering placing limits on the on the entry of Israeli Arabs to the Temple Mount during Ramadan based on a joint security assessment between the Shin Bet, IDF, and Police, reports Kan News.
The proposed ban would particularly affect adult men under the age of 40, identified as posing the most significant security risk. Security Minister Ben-Gvir seeked more stringent measures, suggesting access be limited to individuals aged 70 and above. However, this recommendation was unanimously dismissed due to concerns it might ignite unrest among Israeli Arabs—a community that has remained largely peaceful throughout the ongoing war with Hamas.
The decision will be enforced during the first week of Ramadan, after which authorities will reevaluate the situation. Whether women and children will be allowed has not yet been decided, according to the report.
The Temple Mount has always been a contentious site between Jews and Muslims. For Jews, it is the site where the Jewish Temples once stood, representing the epicenter of Jewish spiritual and historical identity. For Muslims, it is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, believed to be where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Night Journey.
