Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir led a large group of over 1,250 Israeli settlers in storming the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem on August 3, 2025, coinciding with the so-called "Temple Destruction Anniversary." Ben-Gvir, a far-right minister, prayed at the flashpoint site, challenging longstanding rules governing one of the most sensitive religious locations in the Middle East. The event included an open procession and public prayers inside the mosque compound, actions described by local authorities as attempts to make the day the largest incursion to date, crossing religious and legal red lines. Ben-Gvir also called for the occupation of Gaza during the event. The incursion and Ben-Gvir's actions provoked widespread condemnation from Arab states including Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, as well as Palestinian authorities, who viewed the visit and prayers as provocative and deeply offensive. The incident has raised fears of escalating tensions in the region amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Ben-Gvir stated that he prayed at Al-Aqsa for Israel's victory over Hamas, further intensifying the controversy surrounding the visit.