In response to a surge of violence, some government officials in Israel have called on civilians to apply for firearm permits and defend themselves in the event of a terror attack. According to Israel's Ministry of National Security, the number of applications have been hitting record levels. CGTN's Michal Bardavid reports.

"Carry guns. Weapons save lives." 

These are the words of Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir who has called on Israelis to arm themselves for defense purposes and has pledged to ease the country's gun licensing process.

Israel has been witnessing an increase in terrorism involving car ramming attacks and stabbings by individuals in crowded areas. On July 4, a Palestinian assailant was killed by an armed civilian at the scene of an attack in Tel Aviv. Israeli officials applauded his bravery.

ITAMAR BEN-GVIR Israeli National Security Minister "We can't put a policeman on every street (but) we can give civilians weapons to defend themselves. And I praise, I praise his action, a sharp and professional act. He headed for contact, neutralized the risk and prevented harm to human lives."

MICHAL BARDAVID Tel Aviv "Gun license applications in Israel experienced a significant surge last year, more than doubling from approximately 19,000 in 2021 to over 42,000 in 2022. The Ministry of National Security referred to it as a record-breaking year, as it marked the highest number of applications ever recorded in a single year."

Certain requirements must be met for a firearm license, such as the completion of theoretical and practical training as well as a basic knowledge of Hebrew. Ben-Gvir has promised to expedite the issuance of gun permits, aiming to increase the monthly quota from 2,000 to 10,000.

Avihi Cohen serves as the director of a gun shop located in the northern Israeli city of Afula. The shop is responsible for issuing firearm licenses and providing training services.

AVIHI COHEN General Director, North Arms Firearm Shop "In the event of an incident, you learn when it is permissible to open fire and when it is prohibited, all of which is covered in the theoretical class. The utmost important aspect to consider when selecting a private firearm is its comfort, ensuring that you can conceal it under your shirt or in a bag, and that you feel at ease with it. It should be easy to carry and not visibly noticeable."

Cohen stresses that people with gun ownership must be very mindful of their firearm to maintain safety.

AVIHI COHEN General Director, North Arms Firearm Shop "Naturally, we request that civilians receive training and train themselves, specifically, to have a precise understanding of when to shoot and when not to shoot, how to aim accurately, avoid unnecessary firing, close the distance to the target, and neutralize it. Armed civilians provide an initial solution until the arrival of security forces. They do not intend to substitute the security forces."

The National Security Ministry says there are more than 150,000 Israelis holding valid gun licenses, but that number doesn't include security guards that are given weapons for their job or those who serve in the security forces and military. However, with the ongoing rise in terrorist attacks, it is anticipated that there will be a rise in applications for gun permits. Michal Bardavid, CGTN, Tel Aviv.