Israel approved today, Sunday, the formation of a National Guard under the leadership of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who stated that the guard will focus on disturbances in Arab areas. His political opponents have accused him of forming a sectarian "militia." The previous government had initiated procedures to establish an auxiliary police force to address domestic political violence following pro-Palestinian protests in areas inhabited by both Jews and Arabs during the Gaza war in May 2021, but that government was replaced before the formation of this force could be completed.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the specific powers of the new National Guard will be discussed by a committee composed of all Israeli security agencies, which will provide recommendations within 90 days. It is still unclear who will have direct authority over the National Guard. Police Commissioner Yaakov Shabtai expressed concerns about the new force in a message to Ben-Gvir, according to local media reports. Ben-Gvir is a Jewish settler from the occupied West Bank who has previously been convicted of supporting terrorism and inciting against Arabs, who make up 21% of Israel's population. He rose to prominence in politics due, in part, to the unrest in 2021. After moderating some of his hardline positions, Ben-Gvir has become responsible for an expanded law and order portfolio in the religious-nationalist coalition led by Netanyahu.
