Israeli Minister Approves Gun Licences for 18 West Bank Settlements
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has approved gun licences for residents of 18 additional illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. The move comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government continues to expand settlements, a step that critics say undermines prospects for a two-state solution.
Government Justifies Action as Security Measure
Ben-Gvir, a far-right minister, announced the decision on Wednesday via Telegram. He said that residents of these settlements will now be able to apply for personal firearm licences to “enhance self-defence and increase personal security.”
Rising Settler Violence Against Palestinians
The announcement follows UN reports documenting more than 1,800 attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in 2025, averaging about five incidents per day. Human rights groups say the approval of additional gun licences could increase tensions and worsen violence in the region.
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