Knesset members from the opposition Likud and NRP-National Union parties stated their opposition to Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s decision to allow Turkish inspection of the controversial excavation and construction near the Temple Mount, noting that it undermines Israel’s sovereignty, and that no other country would be expected to have its authority compromised in that way. Likud MK Yuval Steinitz called Olmert’s initiative “one of most senseless ideas that it is possible to imagine”.

Members of the Islamic Movement, which has spearheaded Arab protests and calls for riots, also condemned the Turkish plan for not consulting with local Arabs before reaching an agreement with Olmert. Arab MKs also noted that Olmert could have discussed the matter with the Wakf, the PA, or the Jordanian government before entering into discussion with Turkey.