Itamar Ben Gvir Expands Security Powers but Crime Rates Soar in Israel
Itamar Ben Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister, has been a highly controversial figure since his appointment, known for his hands-on approach and confrontational style. Over three and a half years in office, he has pushed for expanded gun licenses, increased police budgets and salaries, new anti-terror and anti-extortion laws, and tougher incarceration policies for security prisoners. However, some of his key promises, such as immunity laws for soldiers and police and broad changes to police rules of engagement, have not been fully realized.
Ben Gvir's flagship legislation, the death penalty for terrorists, was passed in March 2026 but faces significant legal challenges and uncertain practical application. His proposed immunity law for security forces stalled in the Knesset, and no comprehensive changes to police shooting protocols have been implemented. The National Guard he established operates without formal legal framework and has been criticized for its irregular deployment.
The number of licensed gun owners nearly doubled from 155,000 in 2022 to 350,000 in 2026, reflecting a major policy shift to enhance civilian self-defense, though concerns remain about oversight and training. Police salaries and staffing levels have improved, but a shortage of 1,470 police positions persists as of mid-2025. The Israel Prison Service, under Ben Gvir's influence, has significantly tightened conditions for security prisoners since October 2023, sparking legal and human rights debates.
Despite increased budgets, rising from 20.6 billion shekels in 2022 to over 29 billion in 2026, and legislative efforts against extortion and terror-related citizenship revocation, violent crime has surged. The number of murder victims more than doubled from 148 in 2022 to 308 in 2025. The Arab community has been especially hard hit, with low rates of case resolution and ongoing violence.
Ben Gvir defends his record by citing legislative achievements, enhanced enforcement against crime and terror, and a 70% drop in terror attacks in Israeli cities. He emphasizes prioritizing police safety and expanding security forces, including the National Guard. Critics argue that despite policy changes and budget increases, public safety has not improved, highlighting a gap between promises and outcomes.
Summary: Itamar Ben Gvir has expanded Israel's security apparatus and passed key laws but failed to reduce violent crime, which has more than doubled since 2022, especially in Arab communities. Some promised reforms remain incomplete or legally challenged, raising questions about the effectiveness of his tenure.
