‘30-40 People Should Be Killed Every Night in Gaza,’ Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir’s Controversial Remark

Kyiv: Disagreements have emerged within the Israeli government regarding the ongoing war in Gaza. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has said that military action in Gaza should be intensified instead of reduced. His statement has now become a topic of discussion at the international level. Ben-Gvir said this in the podcast of former hostage Rome Braslavsky.

What did Ben-Gvir say?

Ben-Gvir clearly said that he is not happy with PM Netanyahu's current stance. He believes that Israeli attacks in Gaza have slowed down in recent times. He demanded that "30 to 40 people be targeted and killed every night" in Gaza. He says that more strictness will have to be taken against Hamas. Ben-Gvir is a senior minister in the government. He looks after the police and jail system. But he does not have the right to directly give orders to the army.

Why is Ben-Gvir angry with Netanyahu?

Ben-Gvir has different opinions from PM Netanyahu on many issues. They want more aggressive action against Hamas. He has also been advocating for the resettlement of old Israeli settlements in Gaza. His statement also shows the ongoing tussle within the government. The right wing of the government wants to prolong the war.

What is going on in Gaza now?

Ben-Gvir's statement comes at a time when international pressure to end the war in Gaza is increasing. The administration of US President Donald Trump is also trying to stop the conflict. Meanwhile, the Israeli army says that they have attacked the positions of Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Khan Younis and Nusrat areas. In a recent action, several people were injured and one death was reported.

What effect can this statement have?

1. Impact on domestic politics: Ben-Gvir's statement will strengthen right-wing voters inside Israel. They are in favor of continuing the campaign in Gaza and mass exodus of Palestinians.

2. International pressure will increase: Many countries of the world are already raising questions on the death of civilians in Gaza. Such a statement by a minister can increase problems for Israel.

3. Obstruction in peace talks: America is currently working on a peace plan for Gaza. In such a situation, the demand from within the government to intensify the war will make ceasefire and negotiations more difficult. At present, no official response has come from the PM Office on this statement of Ben-Gvir. But it is certain that this one statement has given a new direction to both Israeli politics and the Gaza war.