Israeli Minister Vows to Burn Bodies of Hamas Leader, Oct 7 Attackers

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reiterated his ambition to become the Defense Minister following upcoming Israeli elections, stating on Kan Reshet Bet public radio that he would order the burning of the bodies of Yahya Sinwar, the former Hamas chief, and other perpetrators of the October 7 attacks currently held in Israeli custody. "Once I get the Defense portfolio, I will ensure that Sinwar's body and the bodies of the October 7 terrorists are burned," Ben Gvir declared, promising a "significant change in approach" at the helm of the ministry. This statement is currently a political pledge, with no official decisions made in this regard.

Ben Gvir has recently intensified his public declarations regarding his desired role in a future government. Speaking at an event near the Gaza border, he expressed hope for an Israeli return to Nisanit, a former settlement in northern Gaza evacuated in 2005, aiming to achieve this as Defense Minister if not before the elections. He also alluded to a broader return to Gaza.

His proposed security agenda includes encouraging the voluntary emigration of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank, disarming the Palestinian Authority, and arresting its officials who support terrorism. Regarding the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Ben Gvir advocates for revising rules of engagement and the military's ethical code, while simultaneously increasing support for soldiers. His plan also involves raising soldier salaries, providing free land to combatants, and opening elite units, including the 8200 intelligence unit, to a wider segment of the population.