Controversial National Guard led by far-right minister Ben Gvir approved in Israel

Israel's government has approved the formation of a national guard proposed by far-right minister Itamar Ben Gvir, which will deal with national emergency situations. The move has been criticised by security officials who warn it could destabilise the country. The national guard proposal was endorsed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in exchange for Ben Gvir's support amid a national crisis over plans to restructure Israel's judiciary. The government is proposing major budget cuts to fund the guard, including a reallocation of $277m from all other ministries and an estimated $85m from the Defense Ministry.