Itamar Ben Gvir
Itamar Ben Gvir the leader of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party (Photo: +927 Magazine)

Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's hard-line Minister of National Security, has opened the door for over 300,000 Jewish residents in Jerusalem to apply for civilian gun permits. The announcement has drawn swift criticism at home and abroad amid fears it could inflame tensions and trigger violence.

Ben-Gvir Expands Gun Permits Across 41 Neighbourhoods

The new policy now covers 41 Jewish neighbourhoods, including Rehavia, Talpiot, Emek Refaim, and the German Colony, according to Middle East Eye. Previously, urban firearm licences were largely restricted, often limited to those with military or security experience. The Times of Israel reports that the expansion effectively grants nearly all Jewish residents of Jerusalem the right to apply for firearms licences, regardless of prior security service.

Supporters argue the move allows citizens to protect themselves during periods of heightened threat, particularly amid ongoing hostilities in Gaza and broader regional tensions involving Iran.

Ben-Gvir Says Guns Protect Families Amid Rising Tensions

Ben-Gvir defended the policy, citing the timing and security context. He said, 'Precisely in the shadow of the war and during Ramadan, Jerusalem residents have a basic right to defend themselves and their families'. He added, 'Firearms in the hands of responsible citizens constitute an important component in strengthening personal security and enabling an initial response to terror and crime'.

The minister has repeatedly framed the expansion as a measure to equip citizens with the means to respond to threats, while critics warn it could exacerbate already volatile conditions in the city.

Who Is Itamar Ben-Gvir? and His Role in Israel's Security Policy

Born on 6 May 1976 in Mevaseret Zion, Ben-Gvir is the leader of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party and is known for his hard-line nationalist views. As Israel's Minister of National Security in Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government, he oversees internal security, policing policy, and firearm regulation.

His ideology draws from the legacy of Meir Kahane, whose Kach movement was banned in Israel for extremism. Ben-Gvir has also faced criticism for attempts to place allies in senior police roles, raising concerns about the politicisation of law enforcement.

Palestinians and Rights Groups Criticise Gun Permit Expansion

The gun permit expansion has drawn swift backlash. Palestinian authorities described the policy as provocative, warning it could escalate settler violence in contested parts of Jerusalem, according to Middle East Eye. Human rights organisations also criticised the move, arguing that easier access to firearms increases the risk of domestic incidents and community conflict.

Security analysts have highlighted the potential risks. While armed civilians have occasionally intervened in terror attacks, the surge in firearms has raised concerns over accidental shootings and misuse. Following the October 2023 Hamas attacks in southern Israel, applications for gun permits surged, pushing firearm licensing to a two-year high. The Times of Israel reports that over 240,000 new firearms licences have been issued nationwide since Ben-Gvir began promoting civilian gun access.

New Gun Policy in Jerusalem Raises Security Concerns and Policy Implications

The expansion now includes Jewish neighbourhoods previously excluded from automatic eligibility, joining Har Nof, Givat Shaul, Neve Yaakov, and Gilo. Police officers in the Firearms Licensing Division reviewed the decision before implementation.

Critics argue the policy could worsen tensions in Jerusalem, particularly during periods of religious or political sensitivity, according to Middle East Eye. Supporters maintain it is a necessary measure to protect civilians amid ongoing security threats.

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