Israeli Minister Advocates for U.S. Gun Culture Lessons During Controversial Visit

Controversial Visit Highlights Rabbi Ben-Gvir’s Views on Gun Rights

Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, known for his polarizing stances, recently embarked on a significant trip to the United States. During his visit, he engaged with Jewish organizations, law enforcement officials, and various political activists while being met with vocal protests.

Despite facing criticism, Ben-Gvir remained unfazed. His political journey has roots in right-wing activism, and he carried that experience into his discussions across the U.S.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Ben-Gvir discussed his experience during the trip, which included meetings in Mar-a-Lago, Yale University, and New York City. He expressed a noticeable shift in the dynamics of Israel-U.S. relations, particularly since Donald Trump regained a prominent political role.

“Under Biden’s administration, I was viewed as persona non grata, whereas Trump welcomed me at Mar-a-Lago for meaningful discussions,” Ben-Gvir explained. He emphasized how the support of an American president during challenging times can significantly benefit Israel.

High-Profile Meetings Amid Protests

Ben-Gvir’s visit wasn’t limited to interactions with the former president. Several high-profile Republican representatives, including Jim Jordan, Claudia Tenney, Michael Lawler, and Brian Mast, engaged him in Capitol Hill discussions. These meetings typically focused on shared security interests between the U.S. and Israel.

Chairman Brian Mast, a veteran well-versed in both American and Israeli security needs, shared a photo from their meeting, underscoring the need for cooperation on national security. This presents an example of the ongoing dialogue between the two nations regarding safety and defense.

Prior to meeting with Mast, Ben-Gvir expressed interest in gun culture during his travels across America. As an advocate for wider firearm distribution in Israel, he took the opportunity to observe how gun ownership operates in the U.S.

His visits to a shooting range and a gun store left a lasting impression. Ben-Gvir remarked, “I was taken aback by the vast array of weapons accessible to civilians. Even I was surprised by the extent of it.”

Expanding Israel’s Gun Culture

Ben-Gvir faced accusations from critics regarding arms distribution to militias in Israel, a claim he firmly denied. In his discussions, he stated that the weapons he distributed were essential for saving lives.

“There are important lessons we can learn from American gun policy,” Ben-Gvir stated. Although he admitted that he might not advocate for the same extent of distribution, he firmly believes in the necessity of expanding access to firearms for citizens who seek to defend themselves.

Gun culture in Israel has evolved since the horrific events of October 7. Prior to that date, the country maintained strict firearm licensing laws, limiting permits primarily to individuals living or working in high-risk areas, licensed tour guides, and specific military personnel, according to a government report from 2019.

However, the situation has changed dramatically following the October attacks. Since that time, Israel has witnessed a surge in applications for firearm permits. Before October 7, Ben-Gvir had already begun advocating for streamlined handgun application processes, but he introduced additional reforms following the attacks.

Reforms initiated by Ben-Gvir included modifications to military service requirements for prospective license applicants and broadening eligibility to encompass national service members who do not have criminal records, histories of violence, or mental health concerns.

Pushing for Broader Access to Firearms

Ben-Gvir emphasized the need to empower as many citizens as possible with firearms, stating, “When individuals have a weapon within reach, they feel an increased sense of security.” His advocacy to arm communities near Gaza has highlighted the contentious nature of his policy proposals. He pointed out that his warnings about arming civil defense squads went unheeded until recent violent events proved his claims correct.

His successful initiatives to arm civilians near Gaza and to establish civil defense teams in those regions are a source of pride for him. With a sense of urgency, he reiterated, “Thank God, it’s working.”

This emerging gun culture, shaped by recent events, will likely continue to provoke significant debate within Israeli society and influence future policy discussions on civilian firearm access.

Amelie Botbol contributed to this report.