Israeli minister visits Al Aqsa complex in Jerusalem, courts controversy

Itamar Ben Gvir, Israel's minister of national security, visited the Al Aqsa Mosque complex in Jerusalem on Wednesday. He declared that the contested holy site "belongs only to the state of Israel" during his visit.

Ben-Gvir said that his visit was a direct reaction to the recent unilateral recognition of an independent Palestinian state by three European nations.

He firmly stated, "We will not even allow a statement about a Palestinian state."

Situated atop a hill, the Al Aqsa Mosque compound is of great holy significance to Muslims and Jews alike. Numerous violent episodes in the past have been caused by the competing claims over the location.

Although Jews are welcome to visit the complex, they are not permitted to pray there by Israel.

More from World

This follows Norway's and Ireland's official recognition of Palestine as a state.

Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said that, “There cannot be peace in the Middle East if there is no recognition.”

Gahr Store said that the Scandinavian country will recognise a Palestinian state as of May 28.

“The terror has been committed by Hamas and militant groups who are not supporters of a two-state solution and the state of Israel,” the Norwegian government leader said.

Ireland, Spain, and Norway's acceptance of a Palestinian state was welcomed by the Palestinian Authority as well as by Hamas, its rival organization. While Hamas maintains sovereignty over Gaza, the Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-government over the West Bank.

In recent weeks, a number of European Union nations, including Malta, Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia, have announced their intention to recognize the other, claiming that a two-state solution is necessary for enduring peace in the area.

Although Norway is not a member of the EU, it follows its lead in advocating for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.