National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated that Hamas's Nukhba Force terrorists currently held in Israel's prisons must be either given the death sentence or "rot here until they die," during a visit to the Ayalon Prison on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Prison Service Chief Kobi Yaakobi were also in attendance at the prison's Rakefet Wing, a high-security wing holding several Nukhba terrorists.
Ben-Gvir commented that his preference would be to issue a death penalty for the Nukhba terrorists, who were responsible for part of Hamas's October 7 massacre.
However, he added that if this cannot happen, "we must ensure a far worse thing never happens: these murderers must never leave here, ever! We cannot allow this. We cannot allow the next Yahya Sinwar to come out of here to plan another massacre."
If they were to be released from prison, it would send a message to terrorists that "Jewish blood is cheap," Ben-Gvir claimed, adding that "it will pay off for them to commit more murders, more rapes, more abductions."
Ben-Gvir also thanked Yaakobi for his service as IPS chief.
The minister also claimed that there is a "deep state fabrication" against Yaakobi, claiming that the alleged "deep state" does not understand what democracy is, and is aiming to "bring back luxuries and treats for the terrorists."
Deputy Israel Police Commissioner conflict
The Deputy Israel Police Commissioner is set to retire from service, and there is reportedly a dispute between Ben-Gvir and Police Commissioner Daniel Levi over who should take over the role.
Levi supports appointing the current Israel Police Central Commander, Assistant-Chief Yair Hetzroni. Other names circulating as possible appointees include Tel Aviv District Commander Asst.-Ch. Peretz Amar and Amir Cohen, who is on an academic break after serving for two years as Southern District commander.
Ben-Gvir is believed to prefer Amar, given he aligns closer with the minister's personal policy goals.
Sources have stated that Levi will not back down and intends to appoint Hetzroni, as there needs to be close trust between the police commissioner and his deputy.
The decision is expected to be announced in the next two weeks.
The police responded, saying, "They do not comment on gossip."
Efrat Forsher and Alon Hachmon contributed to this story.