Israel

Ben-Gvir Makes Controversial West Bank Remarks

AUG 24 2023·Updated AUG 27

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Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Facts

In an interview on Wednesday evening, Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir claimed that his right to travel supersedes the freedom of movement of Palestinians in the West Bank.
Al Jazeera
Speaking to Israel's Channel 12 in an interview concerning terrorism and security threats, Ben-Gvir claimed that his "right to life comes before their right to movement," arguing the statement to be "the reality."
The New Arab
Ben-Gvir also used the interview to criticize Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, claiming the politician was not doing enough to confront Palestinians needed to "change the picture."
The Times of Israel
The minister also accused "weapons used in Arab crime" of "seeping" into Israel. Ben-Gvir further argued for the resumption of targeted assassinations of suspected Palestinian terrorists, as well as the removal of entry permits for Palestinian workers in the West Bank.
Haaretz
Ben-Gvir also described Israel's previous government as being "allies of the Islamic Movement." In response to the comments, the Kaplan Force protest movement accused Ben-Gvir of "blatant racism" within the "fragmentary leadership" of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Virtual Jerusalem
The comments come after a UN envoy claimed that over 200 Palestinians and nearly 30 Israelis had been killed in territorial conflict this year, the highest number since 2005.
Global News

Sources Split

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The Spin

Pro-Palestine narrative

Ben-Gvir's active role in Netanyahu's government says enough about Israel's lack of concern for the Arab world and its people. Ben-Gvir is solely focused on the downfall of Arabs and must immediately be removed from his post. His latest comments just reinforce his role as an antagonist of peace.

Haaretz

Pro-Israel narrative

Israel continues to face the threat of terrorism fueled by the hate of Palestinian authorities. It is up to Gallant to take real action, and finally destroy those within the Palestinian Arab communities who wish to undermine Israel's sovereign legitimacy. Only then, can peace and security be ensured for both sides within the region.

Israel National News