Israeli Activist Detained for Raising Flag on Temple Mount Despite Security Minister's Orders

Despite explicit public directives from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir that citizens raising the Israeli flag on the Temple Mount would no longer be detained or removed, Israeli police continue to act against flag bearers at the site. On Wednesday morning, Akiva Ariel, acting CEO of the 'Beidinu, For the Temple Mount' movement, was detained for raising an Israeli flag during his visit to the Temple Mount. He was subsequently summoned for a formal hearing prior to a decision on his potential removal from the area.

This incident occurred just weeks after Minister Ben-Gvir clearly stated a policy change allowing flag raising without police interference. However, police actions on the ground appear to follow previous protocols. In response to his detention and hearing summons, Ariel sharply criticized the police and enforcement of the policy, stating, "Minister Ben-Gvir needs to clarify to the police that the elected leadership is in charge. If that is not the case, it seems the Israeli police no longer answer to the National Security Minister."

Ariel also condemned the discrepancy between government officials and ordinary citizens, saying, "It is unacceptable that ministers are allowed to raise flags while ordinary citizens are not; this is intolerable discrimination." The ongoing tension highlights the challenges in enforcing new policies at the sensitive and contested Temple Mount site.