In yet another provocation this year and during Jewish holiday Sukkot, far-right minister Ben Givr led a group of 1,300 Israeli Jewish rightwing supporters to storm Al Aqsa Mosque. While there, he claimed ownership over the site and called on Netanyahu to pursue “complete victory” in Gaza. Israeli authorities removed Palestinians and muslims of the site and imposed strict measures to secure the incursions. Earlier this month, Israeli NGO the Ir Amim Association warned that Israeli authorities are increasingly trying to assert control over Al-Aqsa Mosque and noted that the government particularly exploits Jewish holidays to increase Jewish presence in the area, while also violating the rights of Muslims at the site.
Holy God, we lament the repeated violation of sacred spaces. Deliver us from the sin of hatred and racism. Help us channel our anger into working towards a Jerusalem that welcomes all.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer