International uproar over Israeli minister’s statement of “target killing”, France and Germany strongly condemned


Amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, statements coming from within the Israeli government have created a stir in international diplomacy. Israel’s far-right leader and National Security Minister, who advocates ‘targeted killings’ of Palestinians in Gaza Strip Itamar Ben-Gvir There is a huge uproar in European countries over a controversial statement. Many major countries including Germany and France have strongly condemned this statement.

What was the controversial statement of Minister Itamar Ben Gvir?

During a recent podcast, Minister Ben Gvir made controversial comments while speaking with a former Israeli hostage freed from Hamas captivity. He said Israel should target and eliminate “30 or 40 people” every night in Gaza.

As soon as this statement became public, sharp reactions started in European politics. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Mertz called the statement “completely unacceptable and inhumane.” The German government spokesperson clearly said that this statement is a serious violation of international law. At the same time, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barro and United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres have also called it disgusting and dangerous.

Demand to impose ban at EU level intensifies

After this statement, the demand for imposing strict sanctions against Ben Gvir has again started gaining momentum in European countries. Domestic pressure is also increasing on the German government. German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil said in an interview that such statements should have serious political consequences and are being considered at the European level.

Earlier in May 2026, France had banned Ben Gvir from entering the country after he mocked the detention of activists associated with Gaza relief material.

Israeli government also surrounded by the expansion of settlements on the West Bank

Along with this latest statement of Itamar Ben Gvir, Germany has also expressed deep concern over the continuous expansion of Israeli settlements on the West Bank. These settlements, considered illegal under international law, have expanded significantly during the tenure of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Currently, more than half a million Israelis have settled in the West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem, which is becoming a major obstacle to peace efforts in the region.