National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir strongly criticized Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing him of issuing numerous administrative detention warrants targeting Jews. In response to the matter of administrative detentions, Minister Gallant addressed Minister Ben-Gvir, saying, “It applies to both Arabs and Jews. How does that align with your opposition to me and the Shin Bet regarding administrative warrants?”
Ben-Gvir retorted, “It’s quite simple. I am aware of the details. You issue administrative warrants for individuals who commit property damage, but I demand warrants for murderers.”
Gallant fired back, claiming, “Members of your party aggressively attack me and the Shin Bet.”
Ben-Gvir countered, stating, “They are correct in doing so because your warrants focus on property damage, whereas I believe warrants should be issued for murderers. We must distinguish between murderers and property damage.” Gallant asserted, “One of the most well-known cases involved Federman as the attorney, and you served as the spokesperson.” Ben-Gvir responded, “I hope the information you have is accurate. Federman was never an attorney. While I don’t condone graffiti or car arson, murder must be treated differently.”
Gallant continued, mentioning the Huwara detainees in relation to a gas balloon and benzene. Ben-Gvir corrected him, saying, “The gas balloon incident involved the Bat Ayin underground, which occurred 20 years ago. I hope your intelligence regarding Arabs is more reliable than the information you possess about Jews. I oppose a Jew engaging in graffiti or torching a car, but murder exists in a different realm. Daily murders occur in the Arab sector, and you cannot simply tell me to ‘deal with it’ without providing the necessary tools. According to experts, conducting administrative arrests against criminal families would reduce the number of murders.”
At this point, Prime Minister Netanyahu joined the conversation, stating, “Murder within the Arab sector is terrorism. People live in fear.” Deputy Attorney General Sharon Afek also chimed in, expressing concerns about the National Security Minister issuing indefinite administrative warrants. Ben-Gvir responded, “I am fine with imposing time limits.” Afek emphasized, “It is not a matter of national security; it is an extremely serious criminal act.” Ben-Gvir countered, “It pertains to public security.” Afek argued, “People are not afraid to go to their local store.” Ben-Gvir responded, “Of course, they are afraid. You are unaware of what happens there.”
Justice Minister Yariv Levin interjected, predicting that a situation would arise where 20 people would be murdered at once. He advocated for utilizing administrative measures to prevent such an event. Minister Ben-Gvir once again launched an attack, saying, “We can wait a year to enlist police officers and establish a national guard, but until then, we have no effective means. I fear we will witness 500-600 murders, and it concerns the safety of individuals who are screaming out, rightfully so. If you oppose administrative warrants, then at the very least, allow for restraining orders.”
Gallant clarified, “Administrative detentions not authorized by the Defense Minister are not possible. I expect full support from government ministers regarding administrative detention.” Ben-Gvir concluded, “You must comprehend the criticisms against you. You oppose administrative detentions for murderers but support them for property damage.”
{Matzav.com Israel}
