Controversial Proposal for Ben Gvir-Led National Guard Approved Despite Criticism

Israeli ministers have approved the formation of a national guard under the command of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, with a budget cut across all ministries to fund it. The force is expected to comprise 2,000 servicemembers who will report directly to the far-right minister and will be tasked with tackling “nationalist crime” and terrorism, and “restoring governance where needed.” The authority granted to the national guard, and who it will answer to, will be discussed by a committee of professionals from different security bodies and government agencies who will deliver their conclusions within 90 days.