Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right politician, led a large group of over 1,250 settlers in storming the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on August 3, 2025. The event coincided with the so-called "anniversary of the Temple's destruction," a date considered highly sensitive and provocative. Ben-Gvir prayed publicly at the site, challenging longstanding rules governing the compound, which is one of the most contested religious sites in the Middle East. The incursion included a public march and prayers inside the mosque compound, actions that drew widespread condemnation from Arab states including Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Jordan condemned the visit in the strongest terms, while regional actors expressed concerns that the provocative move could escalate tensions further amid the ongoing conflict involving Hamas in Gaza. Ben-Gvir also called for the conquest of Gaza during the visit. The incident was described by local authorities as one of the most dangerous days for the Al-Aqsa Mosque, with groups associated with the "Temple" movement aiming to make the day the largest incursion to date. The visit and prayers by Ben-Gvir have been viewed as a breach of decades-old agreements and a challenge to the delicate status quo at the holy site, intensifying fears of further instability in the region.