Police Raid on Negev Mosque Sparks Outrage, Minister Defends Action

Police forces entered a mosque in Tel al-Sabi in the Negev region over the weekend following a report of excessive noise. Videos circulating on Arab social media showed officers walking inside the mosque wearing shoes, which triggered widespread criticism from users and various media outlets. The Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, supported the police's actions, stating, "They should get used to it: the law applies to everyone."

According to the police, they received reports of unusual noise emanating from the Al-Salam Mosque in Tel al-Sabi. Officers from the Ayarot station and National Guard personnel arrived at the scene to investigate the source of the noise. As no one was found responsible for operating the amplification system, the police entered the mosque to locate the equipment. The police statement indicated that enforcement actions would be completed against the relevant parties in accordance with the law.

During the operation, the mosque's imam was issued a citation. Footage from the event shows security forces inside the mosque, with children and teenagers present. One individual confronted the officers. Arab media outlets condemned the operation, arguing it disrespected the sanctity of the place and the feelings of worshippers, constituting a violation of holy sites and freedom of worship.

In response to the outcry, Ben-Gvir reiterated his support for the forces. "I hear the wailing and the screams in the Arab media," he said in a statement. "They should get used to it: the law applies to everyone. A mosque is not extraterritorial territory, and whoever breaks the law and disturbs the residents' peace will be dealt with by the police and the National Guard. This is the governance I am leading, and so it will continue."