
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has stated that Israel should carry out "30 to 40 targeted killings" every night in Gaza and restore Jewish settlements to Palestinian territory.
Ben-Gvir, a figure on the Israeli far right, said he disagrees with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to reduce the intensity of military operations in Gaza, at a time when the United States is trying to advance a peace plan for the territory.
"We have to carry out 30 to 40 targeted killings every night," he said in an interview.
Ben-Gvir also called for the return of Jewish settlements in Gaza and for Palestinians to leave the territory. He said he envisions all of Gaza under Israeli control and advocated tougher measures against Hamas militants.
The statements come after Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, in which, according to Israeli authorities, about 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 were taken hostage.
Israel then launched a large-scale offensive in Gaza.
According to Palestinian authorities, more than 73,000 people have been killed since the start of the war, while the territory has faced a severe humanitarian crisis.
Ben-Gvir's statements have caused strong reactions due to his previous stances towards Palestinians and calls for harsher measures in Israeli prisons.
In the same interview, former hostage-taker Rom Braslavski called for the execution of those sentenced to death for terrorist acts. Ben-Gvir said he would do everything to make this demand come true.