Weapon License Applications Soar After Jerusalem Shooting Attack

Data from the Ministry of National Security's Firearms Licensing and Supervision Division reveals a dramatic increase in requests for private weapon licenses. In the 24 hours following a terror attack in Jerusalem, applications for personal firearm licenses rose by 145 percent. The division also noted a 75 percent increase in calls to its hotline compared to the average from the previous week.

The surge in applications directly follows a fatal attack at the Ramot Junction in Jerusalem, which resulted in the deaths of six civilians. The terrorists were neutralized by two armed civilians. One of the men had received his license approximately a year ago, under a new reform implemented by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.

Minister Ben Gvir commented on the incident, stating, "Weapons in the hands of civilians have been proven to simply save lives. Those who can should arm themselves."

Ben Gvir also spoke with one of the armed civilians, identified as Y., who described his involvement in the neutralization of the terrorist. Y. recounted the event as a "heavenly mission," noting he was not typically on that route but arrived due to an unusual delay. "I was protected throughout the event and I gained strength and courage," he said. Y. admitted he had no formal training for such events and initially considered fleeing, but joined another civilian who pulled out a weapon. "We managed to save people without getting hurt," he added.

In response, Minister Ben Gvir praised the civilian's actions. "You are simply heroes and I am really proud of you," he said. "I wish there were no attacks and that we would not need you to do this, but when they do happen, it is wonderful that there are people like you."

The incident and the subsequent rise in license applications highlight an ongoing public debate about the role of armed civilians in enhancing security and their effectiveness as a deterrent against terrorism.