Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Sparks Global Outcry With Calls for Mass Targeting in Gaza

Nearly three years after the October 7 massacre, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir appeared on a new podcast hosted by captive survivor Rom Breslavsky titled "October 8." In the episode released on Sunday, Ben-Gvir made controversial statements advocating for nightly targeted killings in Gaza, saying, "I think we need to carry out targeted assassinations in Gaza, 30-40 every night." He described some Palestinians as "not human" and called for the killing of terrorists one by one, while encouraging mass migration of Gaza’s Palestinian population to their countries of origin.

Ben-Gvir also expressed a vision of Israel fully controlling Gaza, stating, "I want this country to be ours completely," and emphasized a hardline stance against enemies who attempt to harm Israelis. His remarks coincided with Jared Kushner’s visit to the region to push for practical implementation of a ceasefire plan in Gaza.

The minister’s comments quickly drew international media attention and condemnation. Major outlets including the Associated Press, Financial Times, Der Spiegel, and Corriere della Sera highlighted his rhetoric. The AP noted that similar statements by Ben-Gvir and other Israeli officials have been presented as evidence of intent to commit genocide at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Legal experts warn that encouraging mass migration from Gaza could amount to ethnic cleansing.

European and international media also pointed out that Ben-Gvir is considered an extremist within the Israeli government, whose influence has grown since October 7 due to his tough rhetoric. Despite his role, he does not command the Israeli military and cannot order strikes in Gaza. His authority extends over Israel’s prison system and police, which oversee thousands of Palestinian detainees.

Iranian officials sharply criticized Ben-Gvir’s statements, with Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister calling him a "Zionist criminal" and urging documentation of his remarks for future prosecution. The controversy underscores the heightened tensions surrounding Gaza’s future amid ongoing conflict and stalled ceasefire efforts.