Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Biden administration slams Ben-Gvir's Temple Mount visit

US Ambassador to Israel Thomas Nides chastised the Israeli government Tuesday morning, after National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the Temple Mount.

Speaking with Axios reporter Barak Ravid shortly after Ben-Gvir’s visit, Nides protested any perceived changes to the status quo on the Temple Mount.

“To be very clear - we want to preserve status quo and actions that prevent that are unacceptable. We have been very clear in our conversations with the Israeli government on this issue.”

Ben-Gvir made his first visit Tuesday morning to the Mount since taking office last Thursday.

Escorted by his bodyguards and police officers, toured the holy site without event.

"Our government will not surrender to the threats of Hamas,” the minister declared. “The Temple Mount is the most important place for the people of Israel, and we maintain the freedom of movement for Muslims and Christians, but Jews will also visit the site. Those who make threats must be dealt with an iron hand." READ MORE