Ben-Gvir Threatens Coalition Boycott Over Death Penalty Bill for Terrorists in Israel

Itamar Ben-Gvir, chairman of the Otzma Yehudit party and Israel's Minister of National Security, has demanded that the Knesset prioritize and pass legislation establishing the death penalty for terrorists, citing coalition agreements with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party. Ben-Gvir accused the Likud of delaying the bill's advancement, previously citing concerns that the legislation could endanger Israeli hostages held by Hamas, but he now claims those excuses are invalid following the hostages' return. He warned that if the bill is not brought to a vote within three weeks, his party will no longer be obligated to support the coalition, threatening to withdraw political backing. Ben-Gvir also criticized the recent release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners as part of a hostage deal, calling it a moral and strategic failure that motivates further terrorism. He emphasized that the death penalty law would serve as a deterrent to future attacks and kidnappings, asserting that Israeli blood must not be considered cheap. Additionally, Ben-Gvir has urged Netanyahu to continue military action against Hamas, insisting on the group's dismantlement and threatening to dismantle the government if these demands are not met.