Israeli Minister Calls for Killing 30–40 Palestinians Every Night in Gaza

Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called for Israeli forces to kill 30 to 40 Palestinians every night in Gaza, arguing that lethal action should not be limited only to people who pose an immediate threat.

Ben-Gvir made the remarks during a podcast conversation with former Israeli hostage Rom Braslavsky, an Israeli citizen who was held by Hamas during the Gaza war and was later released. The episode was made public on Sunday, August 16. The comments were reported by Al Jazeera.

During the discussion, Ben-Gvir said Israeli forces should kill “30 or 40” people in Gaza every night. He also argued that military action should extend beyond individuals considered immediate threats.

Ben-Gvir went further in his comments about Palestinians in Gaza, saying that some people there “do not deserve to live” and characterizing them as not being human.

The remarks have added to the controversy surrounding Ben-Gvir, one of the most prominent members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government. As national security minister, he oversees Israel’s police and prison systems.

Ben-Gvir has previously faced widespread criticism for inflammatory statements and policies concerning Palestinians and the war in Gaza. His latest comments come amid continuing international scrutiny over Israel’s military operations and the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territory.