Israel's Ben-Gvir vows executions for Palestinian prisoners if named defense minister
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Israeli far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on social media that he would push for executions of Palestinian prisoners and the expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank if he becomes defense minister. His Jewish Power party will demand the defense and justice portfolios as a condition for joining any future government. The statement comes ahead of Israel's October 27 general election.
Key Facts
- Ben-Gvir said he met Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's associate Hasan Selame in prison about two weeks ago.
- Selame was sentenced to 48 life terms for bombings that killed and wounded dozens of Israelis.
- Israel's parliament passed a bill in late March 2026 allowing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners by a vote of 62 to 48.
- Israel refused to release Selame in the 2011 prisoner exchange deal.
Ben-Gvir's Pledge
Ben-Gvir wrote on X that as defense minister he would ensure the execution of 'murderous terrorists' like Selame. He said he would promote a policy of 'voluntary emigration' of Palestinians from Gaza, Judea and Samaria. His Jewish Power party will demand the defense and justice portfolios as a condition for joining any future government.
Hasan Selame Case
Selame participated in the First Intifada in 1987 and is held responsible by Israel for bombings that killed and wounded dozens. He is known as the 'Hero of the Holy Revenge Operations' and was sentenced to 48 life terms. Israel refused to release Selame in the 2011 prisoner exchange deal.
Election Context
Ben-Gvir's remarks came ahead of Israel's October 27 general election. Public opinion polls show the current ruling coalition losing support. Israel's parliament passed a bill in late March 2026 allowing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners by a vote of 62 to 48.
2 sources
Time · lag behind first