Election pledge from Ben-Gvir: Death penalty for Palestinian prisoners, 'migration' policy for Gaza and the West Bank

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir made statements targeting Palestinian prisoners and the presence of Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank ahead of the general elections scheduled for October 27.

In a post on his X account, Ben-Gvir stated that if he were to assume the role of defense minister in the future, he would work toward the execution of Palestinian prisoners and continue to support policies that envision the departure of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

In his statement, Ben-Gvir noted that he had visited the prison about two weeks ago to meet with Palestinian prisoner Hassan Salameh, referring to Salameh as "a friend and partner of senior Hamas figure Yahya Sinwar."

Recalling his participation in demonstrations following the 1996 bus bombings in Jerusalem that killed and wounded many Israelis, Ben-Gvir said, "As Defense Minister in a future government, I will ensure that murderous terrorists like him are executed. I will promote a policy of migration from Gaza, Judea, and Samaria."

Stating that his party, the Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) Party, would demand the Ministries of Defense and Justice as a condition for joining any future government, Ben-Gvir reiterated his call for exile under the heading of "voluntary migration," which he has voiced previously.

Palestinian prisoner Hassan Salameh is held responsible by Israel for bombing attacks that resulted in the deaths and injuries of dozens of people. Salameh, who participated in the First Intifada, was sentenced to 48 life terms. Israel did not agree to release Salameh in the 2011 prisoner exchange deal.

The Israeli Knesset had passed a bill in late March 2026 allowing for the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners by a vote of 62 to 48. Ben-Gvir's remarks come in an election atmosphere where public opinion polls indicate a loss of votes for the current ruling coalition.

News Source: 12punto