Israeli figure advocates bombing Al-Aqsa as settlement policies intensify

An Israeli activist has sparked outrage after openly calling for the bombing of Al-Aqsa Mosque and other religious sites in occupied East Jerusalem, in remarks that align with the hardline agenda of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The interview, published by Middle East Eye, shows the activist advocating for the rapid reconstruction of a so-called Third Temple and urging strikes on both mosques and churches in the city, claiming the land was divinely given to Jews. At the same time, Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon has stated that the West Bank is not occupied territory, asserting that Israel holds historical and even Torah-based claims over the area. Danon told SKY News that "this is our land," directly challenging the internationally accepted legal status of the occupied territories. The Israeli military has also reinforced its presence in the West Bank, increasing the number of battalions there to 26, according to local media reports. Additionally, authorities have reportedly seized approximately 15 dunams of Palestinian land near El-Bire to create a security corridor around an illegal settlement, restricting access to hundreds more acres.

Activist calls for ‘bombing’ of Al-Aqsa and churches

During the interview, the activist was asked about the future of the Al-Aqsa compound and the Dome of the Rock. He responded by saying both structures should be "bombed as fast as possible" to pave the way for the Third Temple. He further argued that all churches and mosques in the region should be destroyed because "there is no room for other religions" on what he described as Jewish land. The activist's remarks have been widely condemned as an open incitement to religious war and a reflection of extreme elements within Israeli society who have gained influence in the current government. The interview footage has since gone viral on social media, fueling concerns that such rhetoric could accelerate violence on the ground.

Israeli ambassador defends occupation, settlers gain ground

Ambassador Danon's comments have further complicated international efforts to de-escalate the conflict. He argued that Israel's rights over the West Bank are rooted in historical and biblical narratives, dismissing the term "occupied" as inaccurate. This stance is consistent with the policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and far-right coalition partners. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the Israeli military’s reinforcement in the West Bank may signal a larger operational shift, as settlement activity continues unabated. The Palestinian Commission of Resistance to the Wall and Settlements has confirmed that a recent military order has effectively created a new buffer zone near the Jabal al-Tawil area, separating Palestinian farmers from their lands and further fragmenting the territory.

Netanyahu rival also rejects two-state solution

Adding to the hardening political climate, former military chief and opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has stated that a two-state solution is "pure fantasy" after the events of October 7, 2023. In an interview with Israel Hayom, Eisenkot expressed opposition to Palestinian statehood while criticising the government’s handling of settler violence. His remarks signal a rare but growing consensus across parts of Israel’s political spectrum that explicitly rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state. In a related development, Israeli officials also confirmed that approximately 15,000 to 20,000 Israelis now consider the Greek Cypriot administration "home," with trade and tourism ties deepening, pointing to Israel's expanding regional economic and diplomatic footprint beyond its immediate borders.