Israeli Gun Licensing Reform Criticized Amid Surge in Domestic Firearm Murders
In Israel, a significant increase in domestic firearm murders has been reported following reforms in gun licensing laws. The National Security Ministry, led by Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, implemented changes that have doubled the number of licensed gun owners from 150,000 to over 300,000. This reform was intended to enhance public safety by allowing more civilians to carry weapons for self-defense. However, data from the Michal Sela Forum, a nonprofit focused on preventing domestic violence, indicates a troubling rise in the number of women murdered with firearms. Since the reform, 22 women and one girl have been killed by relatives using firearms, a stark increase from previous years. Critics argue that the reforms have not adequately prevented weapons from falling into the wrong hands, leading to increased domestic violence and murders. 
