Ben-Gvir Calls for Increased Military Action in Gaza

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated that Israel should carry out targeted killings of “30 to 40” people every night in the Gaza Strip. The remarks were made on a podcast hosted by former hostage Rom Braslavski during a discussion about the situation following the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023. Ben-Gvir said he disagreed with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the recent reduction in Israeli strikes in Gaza.

“Not just those who pose an immediate threat — there are people there who are not worthy of life. They shouldn’t live. They’re not even people”, Ben-Gvir said. Similar statements by Ben-Gvir and other Israeli officials have previously been presented by South Africa to the International Court of Justice as evidence of alleged genocidal intent. Israel rejects the genocide allegations and has argued that statements cited by South Africa do not represent government policy.

Ben-Gvir also advocates for the mass emigration of Palestinians from Gaza and the reestablishment of Israeli settlements throughout the enclave. “I view all of Gaza as ours”, he declared.

The minister oversees the Israeli police and prison system but does not have the authority to order military strikes. His criticism comes after a reduction in Israeli strikes. According to Israeli media, the authority to carry out such strikes has been limited to the chief of the General Staff.

(AP, BAK)