Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir approved the expansion of firearm licensing to 11 more illegal settlements and outposts in the occupied West Bank. The decision was reported by Israel's Channel 14 on Thursday.

The 11 locations are Asif, Ganim, Har Bezek, Homesh, Kadim, Shira, Havat Yair (Lehi), Maoz Tzvi (Maoz), Havat Gilad (Nazer Shomron), Sachlav, and Eibal. Residents there can now apply for personal gun permits if they meet the ministry's criteria.

Ben-Gvir said: "We are continuing the arming revolution and expanding this reform to include the new settlements we have established in the northern West Bank." He claimed the move is for security.

The decision comes days before Israel's October 27 elections. Israeli security officials warned that extremist occupiers could launch coordinated attacks on Palestinians if Netanyahu's bloc loses power. A security source told Haaretz: "Anyone who tells you there is control is lying. The army, Shin Bet and police have lost control of the area." Critics warn that flooding the occupied territory with firearms will fuel more occupier attacks.