The United Arab Emirates strongly criticized Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on Tuesday following his visit to the Temple Mount compound in Jerusalem, a site considered sacred by both Jews and Muslims and one that frequently sits at the center of regional tensions.
The condemnation came just one day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to Abu Dhabi for talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, highlighting the diplomatic sensitivity surrounding the issue.
In an official statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry said it strongly condemned Ben Gvir’s visit and called on the Israeli government to take responsibility for actions that could increase tensions in the region.
The ministry urged Israeli authorities to condemn what it described as provocative actions and to hold accountable those involved. The statement specifically referred to government ministers and officials, emphasizing the need to prevent further escalation.
The UAE also warned that continued actions and rhetoric linked to religious sites could fuel hatred and violence. According to the ministry, such developments threaten social stability and risk increasing tensions between communities.
Officials further stressed the importance of preserving the historical and legal status quo at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The UAE reiterated support for Jordan’s long-standing custodial role over Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem and called for the protection of all religious locations.
The Temple Mount, known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary, is one of the most sensitive religious sites in the world. It is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, making it one of Islam’s holiest locations.
For Jews, the site is considered the holiest place in Judaism because it was the location of the First and Second Temples in ancient times. Under long-standing arrangements, Israel oversees security at the site while the Islamic Waqf administers religious affairs.
The status quo governing the compound has remained a source of debate for years. Jewish visitors are permitted to visit the site during designated hours, but official policy states that prayer is not allowed there. Ben Gvir has repeatedly argued that Jewish prayer should be permitted, a position that has sparked criticism both domestically and internationally.
His latest visit quickly drew reactions from governments across the Middle East. Regional leaders have often warned that changes to arrangements at the site could trigger wider unrest.
The diplomatic response extended beyond the UAE. Iran also criticized recent regional developments linked to Netanyahu’s visit to Abu Dhabi.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry warned of what it described as serious consequences resulting from Netanyahu’s presence in the region. Iranian officials accused Israel of threatening regional peace and security and urged neighboring countries to remain vigilant.
The comments reflected continuing tensions between Iran and Israel, whose rivalry has shaped many political and security developments across the Middle East in recent years.
Meanwhile, reports regarding possible meetings between Israeli and Saudi officials during Netanyahu’s visit also attracted attention. A media report claimed that Netanyahu met with representatives from several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia.
However, senior Saudi officials denied that any such meeting took place. Jordan also rejected claims that its representatives participated in the reported discussions.
Following those denials, the media outlet that published the original report issued a correction, stating that it could not independently verify whether the meeting had occurred.
The developments underscore the complex diplomatic environment surrounding regional relations, religious sites, and ongoing security concerns. While several Arab states have expanded contacts with Israel in recent years, issues involving Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound remain highly sensitive across the region.
As governments continue balancing diplomatic engagement with public concerns over religious and political issues, reactions to visits at the Temple Mount are likely to remain closely watched. The latest dispute demonstrates how actions at one of the world’s most contested religious sites can quickly influence broader regional diplomacy and security discussions.
