Israeli Minister Yitzhak Veselov Visits Temple Mount on Tisha B'Av, Vows to Continue Religious Revolution

Israeli Minister of the Negev, Galilee, and National Resilience Yitzhak Veselov ascended the Temple Mount on Thursday morning, Tisha B'Av, a day commemorating the destruction of the Jewish Temples. Speaking to Channel 7 before his visit, Veselov described the significance of the day as both a moment of mourning and hope for rebuilding the Temple. He noted that he visits the site twice a year, on Jerusalem Day and Tisha B'Av, to express gratitude and to pray for change.

Veselov highlighted what he called a "dramatic change" at the Temple Mount, with more Jews ascending, praying, and performing religious rites openly. He credited National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for leading this "revolution". Veselov contrasted the current atmosphere with the past, saying that previously Jews were met with immediate protests when ascending, but now they do so with strength and pride.

Responding to criticism from left-wing organizations accusing the visits of violating the status quo, Veselov dismissed these claims as hypocrisy, arguing that those who claim to support equality and religious freedom oppose Jewish prayer rights at the site. He affirmed his commitment to continue encouraging Jewish prayer and presence on the Temple Mount, calling it the holiest place for the Jewish people and a source of inspiration.

Regarding President Isaac Herzog's recent calls for unity and combating baseless hatred, Veselov suggested that practical personal responsibility is more effective than declarations, emphasizing individual commitment over public statements.

Summary: On Tisha B'Av, Israeli Minister Yitzhak Veselov visited the Temple Mount, praising increased Jewish prayer activity and pledging to continue expanding Jewish presence despite left-wing criticism. He emphasized the site's religious significance and called for practical unity efforts.