National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Tours East Jerusalem, Emphasizes Jewish Security Presence

On the eve of Tisha B'Av, Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir conducted a professional tour in East Jerusalem alongside senior police officials, including Jerusalem District Commander Asaf Amsalem, Deputy Mayor Aryeh King, and the minister's security secretary, Commissioner Sami Marziano. During the visit, Ben-Gvir received a detailed briefing on police preparations for Tisha B'Av, focusing on the Old City and East Jerusalem. The briefing highlighted a decline in terrorist activity, an increase in weapons seizures, growth in rapid response teams, and an expanded police presence in the area.

Ben-Gvir also toured a new police complex under construction in East Jerusalem, which will house the Kdem district, Shalem station, and other units. The expansion includes 40 new police officer positions and 40 municipal policing roles aimed at strengthening law enforcement and governance in East Jerusalem. The minister met with local residents and business owners to discuss security perceptions and operational needs for continued enforcement enhancement.

Ben-Gvir stated, "There were times when the police were almost absent here, and Jews feared walking these streets. Today, the reality has changed, there is more police presence, more calm, Jews work and move here securely, and we are the owners of this place." He emphasized that the data shows a decrease in terrorist activity, increased weapons confiscations, more proactive operations, and stronger governance. "When determination, strength, and decisiveness are shown, the enemy understands the message," he added.