Ben-Gvir vows ex-captive can join Palestinian executions

Podcast exchange

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir told a former soldier held captive in Gaza that he would pursue legal avenues to allow the man to personally execute Palestinian prisoners, according to an Anadolu correspondent. The far-right minister made the commitment during an interview with Rom Braslavski on his podcast Saturday evening, broadcast from Jerusalem.

Braslavski told Ben-Gvir he wanted to carry out the executions himself rather than delegate the task to others. "I have a personal request, and I am truly looking you in the eyes, minister. Let me be the one who hangs them," Braslavski said, adding: "I don't want a rope; I want a button on a gun. With my own hands, I will execute every terrorist in the State of Israel." Ben-Gvir replied with an enthusiastic pledge: "I will turn the world upside down to make that happen. I promise you that I will do everything I can and turn the world upside down until it happens."

Legislative framework

The exchange referenced legislation enacted by the Israeli Knesset in late March 2026 mandating capital punishment by hanging for Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis. The law — introduced by Ben-Gvir's Jewish Power party — applies when military courts deem an act "terrorism" or determine it was motivated by "denial of the existence of Israel." Ben-Gvir told Braslavski he hoped to see him participate in the process, stating: "I hope it happens. It is one of my biggest dreams to see you there."

Since Ben-Gvir assumed office in late 2022, Israeli authorities have tightened detention conditions for Palestinian prisoners, including restrictions affecting food rations and medical care access, according to rights monitors. The new execution statute represents the latest escalation in carceral policies championed by the far-right minister.