National Security Minister Ben Gvir Reports Massive Illegal Home Demolitions in Negev

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir announced a significant increase in enforcement against illegal construction in the Negev region, claiming that 5,750 illegal homes were demolished within a single year under his tenure. This figure starkly contrasts with the previous government's record, which saw only four demolitions during its entire term, a fact confirmed by Knesset member Mansour Abbas. Ben Gvir emphasized his role in demolitions, stating, "I work there, I destroy, someone else is responsible for building. My job is to demolish." He linked these actions to efforts to combat Arab crime and clan activity in the Negev.

Regarding security along the Israel-Lebanon border (the "line of contact"), Ben Gvir praised police forces for their recent operations against illegal infiltrators ("Shabachim") entering Israel to carry out attacks. He rejected attempts to shift responsibility between the Israel Defense Forces and the police, affirming joint jurisdiction and commending the police for their effective actions, including the use of live fire against infiltrators.

Ben Gvir also took a hardline stance against the Palestinian Authority, accusing it of actively supporting terrorism and calling for its dissolution. He revealed that he is the sole member of the security cabinet opposing financial transfers to the Palestinian Authority, stating, "If Netanyahu asked me, I would say erase the thing called the Palestinian Authority." He insisted that the National Security Ministry remain under the control of his party, Otzma Yehudit, in the future.