Ankara: Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem on Monday under police protection, with circulating images showing him performing prayers inside.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ben-Gvir entered the compound accompanied by police guards and several Israeli occupiers, as confirmed by an official from the Islamic Endowments Department in Jerusalem who requested anonymity. Images shared on social media showed the minister performing prayers in the eastern section of the mosque.

Ben-Gvir, the leader of the far-right Jewish Power party, has repeatedly entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, actions that have drawn widespread Palestinian, Arab, Islamic, and international condemnation. This latest incursion occurred nearly two months before Israel's general elections, scheduled for October 27.

Al-Aqsa Mosque is regarded as the world's third-holiest site for Muslims. Jews refer to the area as Temple Mount, asserting it was the site of two ancient Jewish temples. Since 2003, Israeli police have permitted occupiers to enter the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound daily, except on Fridays and Saturdays.

Palestinians aspire to establish East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state, referencing international resolutions that do not acknowledge Israel's occupation of the city in 1967 or its annexation in 1980.