Just the presence of Jews in this location (which happens to be one of the holiest sites in Judaism) constitutes "desecration" worthy of committing terrorist attacks (i.e. killing actual people) in response.

And probably would be a non story if praying was permitted .

Even that sentence I wrote seems bizarre in 2014.

They should take note of what causes the biggest reaction among Palestinians (and indeed among Muslims worldwide) with respect to Israel.

in the Muslim religion. I understand its importance to the Jewish religion, but what precisely happened there that makes it a Muslim holy site?

With the help of Gabriel and a flying donkey.

to the presence of Jews as "desecration". This is a misuse of language. There are ways to make the argument that aren't so repulsive.