*August 26, 2024*Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has ignited controversy with his recent proposal to build a synagogue at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, known to Israelis as Temple Mount. During an interview on Israeli Army Radio, Ben Gvir argued that the recent policy changes allowing Jewish prayer at the site should be followed by establishing a synagogue there.The proposal has met with strong criticism from across the political spectrum in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office quickly rejected the idea, reaffirming that there is no change to the current status quo at Temple Mount. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant condemned Ben Gvir’s remarks as “dangerous, unnecessary, and irresponsible.”The controversy follows Ben Gvir’s recent visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque, which has heightened tensions and drawn condemnation from Palestinian groups. Hamas has denounced the proposal and called on the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to address the issue, urging Palestinians in the West Bank and Israel to mobilize and demonstrate at Al-Aqsa.