Israel has very strict.gun laws which is perplexing given the constant warfare, terrorism, and being surrounded by anti-israeli nations that want to kill all of them.
To possess a gun there you need to go through many requirements and provide a valid reason for needing a firearm. Just self defense isn't sufficient.
Once approved, Israelis can possess one pistol and up to 50 rounds of ammo. Or a long gun based on the purpose such as Olympic shooting, hunting, etc.
They loosened their laws a tad today.
https://twitter.com/itamarbengvir/status/1711094677401653385Today I directed the Firearms Licensing Division to go on an emergency operation, in order to allow as many citizens as possible to arm themselves.
The plan will take effect within 24 hours, below are its main points:
1. Any citizen who meets the detailed tests for carrying a private firearm due to self-defense and serving the security forces, and is without a criminal or medical record, will be required to undergo a telephone interview instead of a physical interview, and will be able to receive permission to carry a firearm within a week.
(Self-defense tests: residence in an eligible settlement, rifle veterans 07 and above, officers in the rank of lieutenant and above and combatants in the rank of major and above in the IDF and the security forces, service in special units, firefighters, policemen, and workers and volunteers in the rescue forces).
2. Any citizen who received a conditional permit to purchase a firearm and did not purchase a firearm during the year 2023 and the conditional license has expired, will be able to purchase a firearm now without the need to submit another application. The exemption will apply to about 4000 citizens.
3. Any citizen who deposited his weapon in the last six months due to failure to perform refresher training or renewal training, will be able to receive his weapon back. The exemption will apply to about 1800 citizens.
4. In addition, starting next Tuesday, conditional permits to carry firearms will be issued with a permit allowing the purchase of up to 100 bullets instead of 50 today.
All this in addition to the criteria change that should happen soon.
I thank the members of the Firearms Licensing Division, the Civil Response Department of the Israel Police and the employees of the Ministry of Health for the very important commitment that will allow as many citizens as possible to arm themselves and protect themselves and their environment when necessary.