Nearly 8,000 Israelis request firearm licenses amid Hamas war

The National Security Ministry said Wednesday that it has received over 7,946 new requests to carry arms since fighting with Hamas began in Israel's South this Saturday.

Over 545 permits for personal handguns have been processed, with 970 new licenses being issued overall. To address the high demand, the ministry is allocating 60 additional staff members to assist the department. Notably, more than 27,000 permits have been granted from the start of the year. 

"Every city resident will be able to get an armament license," National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said this morning at the Sderot police station. "We are facing operation Guardian of the Walls 2, so we will be ensuring that we are prepared, with guns on every street corner," he added.

Correspondingly, the National Security Ministry has overseen the purchase of 10,000 firearms, out of which 4,000 assault rifles have been bought in a deal that costs around NIS 23 million. These guns will purportedly be distributed Wednesday, alongside other protective gear, to emergency response units in 400 locations across Israel. 

Getting gun permits in Israel has been made easier

The terms for obtaining gun permits have been eased considerably following recent events. According to the ministry's updated conditions, any Israeli citizen interested in obtaining a permit, either for self-defense or because they are serving in the IDF, will be entitled to a gun license, provided that they have medical approval, police approval, and passed the exams for carrying private firearms.

In addition, those interested will only have to undergo a quick phone interview, rather than having to appear in person, after which the permit will be issued within a week's time.

Others may apply for a license as well on the condition that they either live in areas that have been declared as danger zones; have army training designated Rifleman 07 and above; or are currently serving in the IDF or other Israeli security forces with the rankings of lieutenant, staff-sergeant-major, or higher.

Additional eligible candidates include those who have served in special units, firefighters, police officers, or employees and volunteers serving in various rescue divisions. Finally, those holding expired or provisional permits will be given extensions, whereas those with valid licenses who have yet to undergo a refresher course or training will be able to get their weapons back. 

"Amunuition saves lives. We will be ensuring that as many Israeli citizens as possible will be able to get personal firearms, and we will continue to make certain that the process for this is straightforward," Ben-Gvir emphasized. "We have replenished weapon supplies for existing emergency response units, and we will be opening new such units across the country to make sure no area is left unprotected."