Israel Expands Gun Permits for Jewish Jerusalem Residents Amid Security Fears

Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has approved gun licenses for residents of 41 Jewish neighbourhoods in Jerusalem. This move makes over 300,000 Jewish residents eligible to carry firearms. It comes as part of his ongoing push to arm more civilians in the country. 

Ben-Gvir announced the decision on Monday, March 8, 2026. He told Israel Hayom that Jerusalem residents have a “basic right to defend themselves and their families,” especially during the war and Ramadan. “A weapon in the right hands saves lives,” he added on X, urging residents to apply. 

Before this, only people near the West Bank separation wall could get permits easily. Those areas were seen as high-risk. Now, even Western Jerusalem neighbourhoods qualify based on residence alone. This expands access hugely in Israel’s capital. 

The policy fits Ben-Gvir’s “Arming Israel” drive since he took office in December 2022. Over 240,000 new licenses have been issued under him. Civilian gun owners have doubled to more than 330,000 by late 2025. Nearly 99% of applicants pass tests, helped by phone interviewers.

Supporters say it boosts safety in tense times. Ben-Gvir points to cases where armed civilians stopped attacks before police arrived. Demand spiked after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. With regional conflicts and Ramadan risks, officials see more threats ahead. 

For UK readers, this echoes debates on self-defence and gun control in the UK. Israel’s strict laws differ from the UK’s tight handgun ban since 1997. Yet both nations weigh public safety against personal arms in troubled spots. 

Critics raise big worries, though. Groups fighting domestic violence fear more family killings. Since October 2023, 53 women have died at the hands of their relatives- a 33% jump. In 2025 alone, 30 such murders happened, one every 11 days. All gun murders of Jewish women used legal weapons. 

Some permits had issues, too. Last month, 195 holders returned guns due to errors. In 2023, police probed Ben-Gvir’s office for improper approvals. Women’s groups note that 280,000 Israeli women face partner abuse. Easier guns could make things worse. 

Ben-Gvir leads the Otzma Yehudit party and advocates hardline security policies. This Jerusalem step follows expansions in West Bank settlements. It shows his influence on Netanyahu’s coalition. 

The change is now active. Applications are open for eligible residents. Police handle the process faster under new rules. 

As Israel faces ongoing wars and tensions, this fuels debate. Will more guns protect or endanger? Supporters cheer empowerment. Opponents warn of risks in a city of sites and divides. For the world, including the UK, it spotlights clashing views on arms and safety.