Ben-Gvir’s U.S. Visit: Encounters, Controversies, and the Pursuit of American Gun Culture

Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, recently concluded a visit to the United States marked by meetings with a diverse array of individuals and groups, ranging from Jewish organizations and law enforcement officials to prominent politicians. The trip, however, was not without its share of controversy, as Ben-Gvir encountered vocal protests and criticism throughout his stay. Despite the uproar, the Israeli minister, known for his right-wing activism in his youth, appeared unfazed, proceeding with his planned engagements and using the opportunity to advocate for his policy positions.

In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Ben-Gvir reflected on his U.S. visit, highlighting key stops, including Mar-a-Lago, Yale University, and New York City. He emphasized a perceived shift in the dynamics of Israel-U.S. relations, particularly noting the difference between the Trump and Biden administrations. According to Ben-Gvir, he felt persona non grata under President Biden, while he was welcomed at Mar-a-Lago and had the opportunity to express his views under President Trump.

"Under Biden’s administration, I was considered persona non grata. Under Trump, I was welcomed at Mar-a-Lago and was able to speak," Ben-Gvir stated. He further emphasized the significance of having an American president who offers unwavering support to Israel, especially during times of conflict, noting that such support makes a tangible difference.

While Donald Trump was a notable figure in Ben-Gvir’s U.S. itinerary, the Israeli minister also engaged with several high-profile Republicans on Capitol Hill. Representatives Jim Jordan of Ohio, Claudia Tenney and Michael Lawler of New York, and Brian Mast of Florida all met with Ben-Gvir to discuss issues of mutual interest.

Representative Brian Mast, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee, shared a photo of his meeting with Ben-Gvir, stating that they discussed the shared security interests of the United States and Israel. Mast’s background as a U.S. Army veteran and former volunteer with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) provides him with a deep understanding of both American and Israeli security needs.

Prior to his engagements on Capitol Hill, Ben-Gvir visited his home state, where he observed aspects of American society that resonated with his policy goals. In particular, he expressed a keen interest in American gun culture, noting his desire to implement similar policies in Israel.

Ben-Gvir has long been a proponent of expanding access to firearms in Israel. During his U.S. visit, he took the opportunity to learn more about American gun laws and practices. He visited a shooting range and a gun store, experiences that he described as "fascinating."

"I was surprised by the quantity and types of weapons available. Even I haven’t reached that level," Ben-Gvir told Fox News Digital, expressing his astonishment at the wide array of firearms available in the United States.

Ben-Gvir addressed criticism regarding his alleged involvement in arming militias, which he denied. He asserted that the weapons he has distributed in Israel have saved lives.

"I believe we need to learn from the Americans. One of the important lessons is their policy on weapons," Ben-Gvir stated, indicating his desire to emulate certain aspects of American gun culture in Israel. "I’m not sure I would distribute arms to the same extent, but I definitely believe in expanding access because citizens have the right to defend themselves."

The landscape of gun control in Israel has undergone significant changes since the October 7th attacks. Prior to the attacks, Israel maintained strict regulations on firearm ownership, with licenses primarily restricted to individuals residing or working in high-risk areas, licensed tour guides, and those who had served with Israeli police or IDF security forces.

Since October 7th, there has been a surge in applications for firearm permits in Israel. Ben-Gvir, who had already initiated efforts to streamline the handgun application process before the attacks, implemented further reforms in response to the massacre. These reforms included adjustments to military service requirements for those seeking a license and expanded eligibility criteria to include national service members with no criminal record, history of violence, or mental health issues.

"We need to allow as many citizens as possible to be armed. It gives people a sense of security—when someone has a weapon in their pocket, they feel safer," Ben-Gvir stated, emphasizing the importance of empowering citizens to protect themselves.

He added that he had previously advocated for arming communities near Gaza but faced resistance. "After Oct. 7, I was proven right. It became clear how necessary it was to provide more weapons to civil defense squads."

Ben-Gvir expressed pride in his efforts to distribute weapons and establish civil defense squads in the area near Gaza, stating, "Thank God, it’s working."

The visit underscores Ben-Gvir’s controversial stance on gun control, his engagement with right-wing figures in the U.S., and the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations.