National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said in an interview with Arutz Sheva - Israel National News that Israel must maintain patience and resilience in its ongoing campaign against Iran, stressing the need for a long-term perspective.
“We need endurance, patience, and the understanding that we are facing an enemy," he said, pointing to what he described as repeated “miracles" on the home front despite earlier pessimistic forecasts. He emphasized that the campaign is still ongoing: “We have not finished the work yet. There is much more to do in Iran and in other arenas. We are making history." According to him, the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program is now broadly agreed upon across Israeli society.
Addressing the northern front, Ben-Gvir reiterated his opposition to ceasefire arrangements in Lebanon, warning against steps he believes could undermine military achievements. He called for maintaining control of extensive areas, including regions beyond the Litani River, and for establishing strong security zones along the border.
A central focus of the interview was the recently approved death penalty law for terrorists, which Ben-Gvir described as a historic step. He dismissed threats from Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, saying he is not deterred and that the law must be enforced. “Let every terrorist know that if he goes out to kill, he could end up on the gallows," he said.
Rejecting claims that capital punishment could incentivize attackers seeking martyrdom, Ben-Gvir argued that only a small minority are indifferent to death, while most seek to live. He described the law as the most significant deterrent measure to date and expressed his intention to see it implemented in practice. "The idea that terrorists want to fie is a myth. Ninety percent of them want to survive."
Responding to concerns about international repercussions, including potential legal challenges in The Hague, Ben-Gvir downplayed the risks, noting that capital punishment exists in countries such as the United States. He specifically disparaged the Israeli Supreme Court, which is expected to strike down the law: "Since when must a minister dance to the tune of the Supreme Court?"
He also criticized opponents within the national-religious camp and legal circles, dismissing arguments that the law may not withstand judicial review or apply universally. “If before there were no executions and now there will be many, that is a significant change," he said.
The minister revealed that initial steps toward implementation are already underway, including coordination with the Israel Prison Service to prepare facilities and review cases. “This will take time, but the process has begun," he said, adding that the move is already having a psychological impact. "It won't happen tomorrow - but it will happen."