Itamar Ben-Gvir, a leader in the Israeli far-right Otzma Yehudit party and who will be Israel's national security minister in the upcoming government, has vowed to change the status quo in Al-Aqsa mosque.
Ben-Gvir also pledged changing shooting regulations against Palestinians and the legalization of settlements.
Speaking to a Hebrew radio station on Sunday, Ben-Gvir responded to a direct question on whether he would allow Jews to pray in the Temple Mount by saying that he would do everything to prevent “racist policies.”
The racist policies Ben-Gvir was referring to are those that prevent Jews from performing public prayers in Al-Aqsa’s compound.
Ben-Gvir moved on to reiterate that he would work to change regulations on shooting Palestinians, describing the current directives as “stupid,” because they leave Israeli soldiers and police vulnerable.
He considered that attackers should be shot even when they do not pose a threat.
“Instead of waiting, those carrying a Molotov cocktail should be shot on the spot,” said Ben-Gvir.
He also stressed that he would work to change the reality of illegal settlements.
“In a few months, we will witness improvement and change, and we will achieve several results,” said Ben-Gvir.
Among other things, Ben-Gvir said he would examine whether a law would be passed in the Knesset to deport the families of those who attacked Israelis.
Ben-Gvir's statements came two days after his party concluded a controversial agreement with the Likud party headed by Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu. By virtue of that agreement, Ben-Gvir will become the minister of national security with expanded powers.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said that the Palestinians will launch a broad political movement to confront the upcoming ministerial coalition in Israel.
Al-Maliki confirmed that Palestinian leadership has sent messages to international bodies, especially the European Union, warning against the consequences of Ben-Gvir assuming ministerial positions in the next Israeli government.
