The noose detail on Ben-Gvir's birthday cake

Itamar Ben-Gvir, one of Israel's far-right politicians, has once again become the center of controversy following his birthday celebration, where he was presented with a cake by his wife featuring a hangman's noose and the inscription "dreams sometimes come true." The cake is being interpreted as a reference to calls for the execution of Palestinians, and images shared on social media have triggered widespread backlash.

This gesture has been directly linked to the legislation that Ben-Gvir supported and which was recently passed by the Israeli Knesset, introducing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners. Experts have pointed out that such symbols could escalate social tensions. The controversial cake has drawn harsh criticism not only from the Israeli public but also on international platforms.

Ben-Gvir's harsh statements against Palestinians, particularly in the West Bank and Gaza, his defense of illegal settlements, and his stance that at times appears to support settler violence have previously brought him to the attention of the international community. In June 2025, many countries, led by the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, began imposing sanctions and travel bans on Ben-Gvir.

Although the death penalty has been abolished in Israel for many years, it is known that death sentences handed down to Palestinian detainees in military courts are typically commuted to life imprisonment. However, following the events of October 7, 2023, the death penalty was brought back onto the agenda by right-wing parties, and the debate was reignited with the new law passed in March.

BEN-GVIR'S PROFILE CONSTANTLY IN THE NEWS

Ben-Gvir, who lives in an illegal Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, is known publicly for his Jewish supremacist views and his past ties to the Kahanist movement. Having served as a lawyer for fanatic Jewish groups, Ben-Gvir is often described by the Palestinian people as the "lawyer for murderers" or the "devil's advocate."

Exempted from military service due to his radical rhetoric, Ben-Gvir has been the subject of 53 indictments related to hate speech, incitement, and racism, and was convicted in 2007 on charges of racism and supporting a terrorist organization.

Despite all the public controversy and international pressure, he continues to serve as the minister responsible for police and security in the latest coalition government formed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

News Source: 12punto