Israel Faces Breakdown in Internal Security Control Amid Rising Civilian Arming

A new study by Dr. Yael Litmanovich and attorney Mirit Lavi from the Israel Democracy Institute reveals a significant loss of centralized control over internal security in Israel since October 7, 2023. Contrary to government claims of maintaining "governance," the research shows that Israel's internal security now operates as a decentralized network involving state, municipal, and private actors, both armed and unarmed. This fragmentation undermines state authority and challenges the rule of law.

The study highlights a 23% budget increase for the Ministry of National Security in 2026, reaching 30.3 billion shekels, reflecting the expanded security apparatus. Researchers describe the current system as a "wild west" with a complex "policing network" that includes the police, civilian guard, national guard, municipal patrols, private security, and independent armed groups. They categorize these actors into three zones: green (regulated and supervised), yellow (partially regulated), and red (illegal armed groups).

A key driver of this decentralization is the surge in civilian gun ownership following a reform led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, which more than doubled private gun licenses to over 350,000 by June 2026. The ministry's messaging encourages citizens to self-defend during terror events, effectively promoting the privatization of security. This has led to unauthorized armed citizen groups performing security roles without legal oversight, sometimes using excessive force.

The study also notes the expansion of municipal security patrols staffed by private, sometimes armed, guards in many cities, often operating without legal authorization or police coordination. Police acknowledge awareness of such activities in 23 municipalities, most deemed illegal, with 70 others seeking approval. The researchers warn this situation risks operational chaos, violations of fundamental rights, and erosion of democratic stability.

In the "green zone," over 1,000 legal neighborhood watch groups and 13,000 new civilian guard volunteers have formed since October 2023. However, these groups also show signs of overstepping authority. The researchers recommend banning participation in unauthorized armed groups, establishing police protocols to manage these entities, and creating an independent committee to review gun licensing criteria. They also call for better regulation and oversight of state and local security bodies to restore order and uphold the rule of law.

The Ministry of National Security did not respond to requests for comment before publication.