Israeli minister’s ban on Muslim call to prayer sparks outrage from Hamas and lawmakers

DDM News

A new directive issued by Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has ignited a wave of criticism across political and religious lines.

The order bans the Islamic call to prayer, known as the adhan, from being broadcast over loudspeakers in mosques located within the occupied Palestinian territories.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the decision has drawn condemnation from Hamas, Palestinian leaders, and even members of the Israeli Knesset.

Hamas reacted sharply to the move, describing it as part of what it called a “brutal religious war” being waged by the Israeli government.

The group accused Israeli authorities of targeting Islamic practices and violating the sanctity of Muslim holy sites.

In a statement released on Telegram, Hamas alleged that the directive represents another example of Israel flouting international protections for religious freedom.

Ben-Gvir defended the ban by claiming that the loudspeakers used for the adhan create “unreasonable noise.”

He described the Muslim call to prayer as a public disturbance, particularly to Israeli residents living near Palestinian mosques.

The minister ordered Israeli police forces to strictly enforce the measure, including the confiscation of loudspeakers.

Offenders will reportedly be subjected to fines and other legal penalties.

The enforcement is said to have been coordinated with another far-right Israeli minister, reflecting growing nationalist sentiment in the country’s leadership.

Mansour Abbas, leader of the United Arab List party in Israel’s parliament, criticized the ban as a deliberate attempt to escalate tensions.

He accused Ben-Gvir of inciting interfaith hostility and undermining efforts toward coexistence between Jewish and Arab communities.

Israeli Member of Knesset Gilad Kariv also voiced concern, warning that such provocative actions could deepen divisions within the country.

He cautioned that the directive might “light the fire” of broader conflict, particularly among youth in volatile areas.

Ben-Gvir has long been associated with ultra-nationalist ideologies and controversial proposals regarding sacred sites in Jerusalem.

He has previously advocated for Jewish prayer rights at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, one of Islam’s holiest sites.

He has even gone as far as proposing the construction of a synagogue at the compound, drawing sharp rebuke from Muslim leaders worldwide.

His latest move is seen by observers as consistent with his past record of inflammatory policies.

The ban on the adhan adds to growing concerns among human rights advocates over the erosion of religious freedoms under Israel’s current far-right leadership.

Organizations focused on religious liberty and interfaith harmony have condemned the directive as discriminatory and unjust.

Some international commentators see the action as part of a broader pattern of marginalization against Palestinian Muslims in the occupied territories.

Palestinian civil society groups argue that the ban is an affront to their identity, culture, and basic human rights.

They point to international conventions that guarantee freedom of religious expression, which they say Israel is blatantly ignoring.

Critics also argue that the Israeli government’s increasing interference in religious affairs could further destabilize an already tense region.

Many fear that such policies might provoke unrest during times of heightened sensitivity, especially during religious observances.

Meanwhile, supporters of the directive within Israel argue that it aims to balance religious practices with public order.

They maintain that some mosque loudspeakers exceed acceptable noise levels and infringe upon the rights of nearby residents.

However, analysts note that the selective enforcement of such measures mainly in Palestinian areas undermines claims of neutrality

Religious leaders in the region have called for restraint and dialogue rather than confrontation.

They urge Israeli authorities to reconsider the decision in light of its potential to inflame tensions and spark violence.

This development comes amid increasing scrutiny of Israel’s domestic policies concerning minority rights and civil liberties.

Ben-Gvir’s prominence in government reflects a shift toward more hardline policies on security, religion, and national identity.

International bodies, including the United Nations, have repeatedly warned against policies that restrict religious freedom in contested territories.

The ban on the adhan is likely to be a flashpoint in future diplomatic discussions on Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.

As reactions continue to pour in from across the globe, many await Israel’s next steps with concern and anticipation.

This episode adds to the growing list of controversies under Ben-Gvir’s tenure, which has already drawn global criticism.

For now, the adhan in the occupied Palestinian territories faces unprecedented restrictions, symbolizing a wider battle over religious rights and national power.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) will continue monitoring developments and responses to this contentious decision.

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