In a move that has sparked significant controversy and widespread condemnation, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has suggested establishing a synagogue within the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. His remarks have not only drawn criticism from within Israel but have also provoked strong reactions from various Arab and Muslim-majority countries.

During an interview with the Israeli Army Radio, Ben-Gvir, known for his extreme right-wing views, stated that current policies allow Jews to pray at Al-Aqsa, potentially paving the way for the establishment of a synagogue. Ben-Gvir's statements have led to an outcry, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office promptly responding that there would be no change to the existing legal status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The minister's comments have alarmed many within Israel, including members of the government. The Interior Minister has urged Netanyahu to act immediately to curb Ben-Gvir's actions, warning that his lack of prudence could lead to bloodshed and jeopardize Israel's strategic alliances against Iran.

Arab and Muslim nations have reacted strongly to Ben-Gvir's statements. Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the remarks as a violation of international law and demanded a clear international stance against this provocation. Similarly, the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims and called for international condemnation and action to counter such provocations.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a statement denouncing Ben-Gvir's comments, labeling them as extremist and provocative, and urged respect for the mosque's historical and legal status. The United Arab Emirates and Qatar echoed similar sentiments, with the latter warning of the potential impact on ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Hamas, the Palestinian organization that governs Gaza, described Israel's decision to fund Jewish tours of the mosque as a dangerous escalation. The group called for mass protests and demonstrations against Israeli actions, accusing Ben-Gvir of seeking to ignite a religious war in the region. According to Hamas, such actions could lead to widespread unrest and conflict.

Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Galant, who has previously clashed with Ben-Gvir, condemned the minister's comments, stating that any challenge to the current status of the mosque could endanger Israel's security and international standing. Opposition leader Yair Lapid argued that Ben-Gvir's repeated statements indicate that Netanyahu has lost control over his government.

The Al-Aqsa Mosque, known as the Temple Mount to Jews, remains a focal point of Israeli-Palestinian tensions. Under a long-standing arrangement, non-Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque during specific times but are not permitted to pray there. However, Jewish nationalist visits, often under heavy police protection, have increased in recent years, leading to tensions and confrontations.

Internally, Ben-Gvir's proposal has not only been criticized by other politicians but has also faced opposition from certain religious Jewish communities who consider the site too sacred for entry. The controversy over Ben-Gvir's comments underscores the fragile status quo at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the broader conflict between Israelis and Palestinians over control and access to Jerusalem's holy sites.

Amid mounting international and domestic pressure, it remains to be seen how Netanyahu's government will navigate the precarious situation at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The potential for escalation highlights the sensitive nature of religious and political issues in the region and the critical need for cautious and measured approaches to avoid igniting further conflict.