Israeli Government Moves Authority Over Terrorist Family Expulsions to Prime Minister Netanyahu

The Israeli government is set to approve transferring the authority to implement the law on expelling families of terrorists to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This decision follows reports by Yedioth Ahronoth and Ynet revealing the law's near two-year non-implementation since its passage in the Knesset. The law's powers currently reside with the Interior Ministry, which has lacked a responsible minister since October, preventing enforcement. After government approval, the transfer requires Knesset plenary approval, which can proceed without opposition consent but typically seeks broad agreement during the election recess.

The law, passed in November 2024 with 61 votes, allows the Interior Minister to order expulsion of a terrorist's family member if they knew of the planned attack, expressed support, or praised terrorism. However, it has never been applied due to opposition from legal advisors. Former Interior Minister Moshe Arbel issued hearing notices to families of three terrorists who incited violence, but legal officials raised numerous objections, including procedural issues and lack of consultation. The Shin Bet representative criticized the lack of coordination, warning it could harm security operations.

The crisis deepened after Arbel and other ultra-Orthodox ministers left the government in July 2025 amid the conscription law dispute, leaving no official authorized to approve expulsions. Requests have since piled up at the Interior Ministry without action. Coalition members sharply criticized the legal advisors' resistance, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich condemning the judiciary's control and promising judicial reform. Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir demanded the immediate dismissal of the Attorney General to restore state authority. Knesset Constitution Committee Chair Simcha Rothman vowed to end what he called a culture of ignoring Knesset laws under the current Attorney General. Lawmakers described the situation as unprecedented damage to Israeli democracy and the rule of law.