Israeli minister Ben Gvir moves to arm 300,000 Jerusalem residents, 41 neighbourhoods now eligible for gun licences

In a significant policy shift, Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir has announced plans to extend the eligibility for gun licenses to residents of 41 Jewish neighborhoods in Jerusalem. This initiative, aimed at bolstering security, will allow approximately 300,000 residents to apply for firearms permits. The neighborhoods included in this expansion join existing areas such as Har Nof, Givat Shaul, Neve Yaakov, and Gilo, which are located on the outskirts of the city. This decision comes amid ongoing tensions in the region and is part of a broader strategy to enhance personal security in areas perceived as vulnerable. Critics of the policy express concern over potential consequences for public safety and the implications of increased firearms access in densely populated urban environments. The announcement has sparked debates around the balance between security measures and community safety, reflecting the complex socio-political landscape of Jerusalem and Israel at large.