“Don’t try us this Ramadan” — Israel warns

Israel Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, issued a statement on Monday, March 11, emphasizing the Israeli authorities’ commitment to respecting freedom of worship during Ramadan while asserting readiness to respond to any potential provocations.

In a video message posted on his Telegram channel, Gallant affirmed Israel’s respect for the freedom of worship at Al-Aqsa, the third-holiest site in Islam, located in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem.

However, he cautioned against any attempts to provoke Israel during the holy month, stating,

“The month of Ramadan may be a month of jihad, and we say to everyone not to try us – we are ready, don’t make mistakes.”

His remarks come amid concerns over potential tensions during Ramadan at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, historically a flashpoint for violence during the Muslim fasting month. During Ramadan, tens or even hundreds of thousands of Muslims gather to pray at the compound.

The situation was further complicated when a spokesman for the armed wing of the Hamas militant group urged Palestinians to mobilize and head towards Al-Aqsa. The compound is also revered in Judaism as the Temple Mount, adding to the complexity of the situation.

Israel announced restrictions on access to the compound during Ramadan, citing security concerns amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. While Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called for stricter measures, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that access would be similar to the previous year.

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi criticized Israel’s decision to limit access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound during Ramadan, warning that such actions could lead to an “explosive situation.” Safadi emphasized Jordan’s rejection of the restrictions, stressing the importance of allowing worshippers to perform their religious duties without hindrance.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s unprecedented attack on southern Israel in October, has further heightened tensions in the region.