ALBAWABA - Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir approved the issuance of gun licences to residents of 18 extra illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, Israeli Channel 12 reported Thursday.
"The importance of the decision lies in the fact that these settlements will now be able to submit applications for a personal weapon licence," Ben-Gvir posted on Telegram on Wednesday.
He claimed that the reason is to "enhance self-defence and increase personal security."
This comes amid orders by Netanyahu's government to expand illegal outposts that undermine prospects for a two-state solution.
According to the United Nations, more than 1,800 Israeli settler attacks against Palestinians – about five per day – were reported last year.
