Yisrael Ariel

Yisrael Ariel (born 1948) is an Israeli Orthodox rabbi and politician. He is notable for his activism advocating for the rebuilding of the Third Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

Ariel served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and participated in the Six-Day War, during which he fought in the battle to capture the Temple Mount. Following the war, he became increasingly involved in religious and political activities centered around the Temple Mount.

Ariel is the founder of the Temple Institute (Machon HaMikdash), an organization dedicated to research, education, and the creation of ritual objects for the future Third Temple. He has written extensively on the subject of the Temple, its rituals, and the laws pertaining to its construction and operation. His writings and activities have often been controversial, particularly in the context of the sensitive political and religious dynamics surrounding the Temple Mount.

Ariel was a member of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) from 1988 to 1992, representing the Kach party, which was later outlawed in Israel. His political views are considered right-wing and nationalist. His activities and statements have sometimes drawn criticism and legal scrutiny due to their potential to incite religious tensions.