Ben Gvir expands eligibility for firearm licenses in Jerusalem
In a significant policy shift, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s Minister of National Security, announced on March 10, 2026, that all Jewish residents in Jerusalem will now be eligible for firearm licenses based on their place of residence. This decision marks a departure from previous regulations that restricted gun permits to residents of neighborhoods adjacent to the West Bank.
The new policy is set to add approximately 300,000 city residents from 41 neighborhoods to the list of those eligible for gun permits. Ben-Gvir’s initiative aims to arm more residents amid ongoing wartime conditions, reflecting a broader shift in Israel’s security policy.
Under the revised guidelines, the approval process for trained applicants will be expedited, and the criteria for who can apply for gun permits will be expanded. Supporters of this policy argue that it will enhance deterrence and enable faster responses to potential threats in the city.
However, the announcement has raised concerns among critics, who warn of potential oversight gaps and the increased risks of accidental harm associated with a larger number of firearms in civilian hands. They argue that the expansion of gun permits could lead to unintended consequences, particularly in a densely populated urban environment.
Eran Nahon, who has previously worked with Ben-Gvir to toughen conditions for Palestinian security prisoners, is believed to be a key figure in the formulation of this policy. The expansion of gun permits is seen as part of a tightening of Israel’s overall security approach, reflecting the government’s stance during periods of heightened tension.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific implementation timeline for the new policy and how the Israel Police will manage the increased number of applications. As the situation develops, both supporters and detractors of the policy are closely monitoring its impact on public safety and community relations.
The announcement has elicited a mixed response from the public, with some expressing support for the increased ability to defend themselves, while others voice apprehension about the implications for safety and security in the city. As the debate continues, the ramifications of this policy change will likely unfold in the coming weeks and months.
