Jerusalem: Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has announced a decision to permit approximately 100,000 more Israelis to acquire special firearm licenses, a move that has stirred considerable debate. This policy, introduced on Monday, aims to expand the list of towns where residents are eligible to apply for these special permits.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Ben-Gvir's office revealed that since the inception of this arming policy, nearly 230,000 new firearm licenses have been issued. The policy, which began towards the end of 2023, was introduced following the escalation of conflict in the Gaza Strip, described as an Israeli war of extermination.
The policy has been contentious, particularly in light of reported incidents involving colonists in the occupied West Bank. These individuals are accused of conducting daily attacks against civilians, leading to displacement and land seizures. In July alone, there were 466 reported attacks by colonists, resulting in the deaths of four citizens and the displacement of 50 Palestinian families from the Arab al-Malihat communities in Jericho and Deir Alla in Bethlehem.
Additionally, colonists have been implicated in 232 incidents of vandalism and theft, affecting extensive areas of land. These acts have led to the destruction and poisoning of 2,844 trees, among them 2,647 olive trees, a significant source of livelihood for many in the region.
