An actuating element for actuating an instrument for performing minimally invasive interventions comprises a first handle half-shell and a second handle half-shell movable relative to each other and connected with each other at one end by a biasing mechanism； a tube arranged substantially centrally between the handle half-shells； a linkage mechanism arranged between the handle half-shells and the tube in order to transmit an actuating movement of the handle half-shells； a locking mechanism with a latching rocker arranged on the first handle half-shell and a locking rocker arranged on the second handle half-shell, wherein the two rockers enter into locking connection with each other through an opening provided therefor in the tube when the handle half-shells are moved together, and wherein the rockers are mounted around a pivot axis such that a swiveling or pivoting movement of the rockers lies within a plane defined by the handle half-shells.
