Ben-Gvir threatened to arrest UK politicians in Israel

Social posts claim Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to arrest UK politicians in Israel

London — Social media posts are circulating widely claiming Israel’s national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, said he would “protect our soldiers with all my might, and if they are harmed in London, British politicians in Israel must be arrested.”

The quote and versions of the claim appear on X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms.
X (formerly Twitter)

The alleged statement is being shared across social networks this morning and has already begun to escalate political debate online.

X (formerly Twitter)
Major international outlets have not (as of this report) published a verified transcript or video of the remark, and we have not independently verified that Ben-Gvir made the statement in the form quoted. We are treating the post as an unverified claim pending confirmation from primary sources.

The claim comes at a tense moment in UK–Israel relations: the UK and several allies sanctioned Ben-Gvir earlier this year over rhetoric and actions seen by those governments as inciting violence, and recent diplomatic rows have increased friction between the two countries.

Relations have been further strained this week as the UK, Canada and Australia moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state — prompting sharp criticism from Israeli leaders and far-right ministers.

Ben-Gvir is a far-right minister whose rhetoric and actions have previously drawn international condemnation and targeted sanctions; comments suggesting extra-jurisdictional actions against foreign officials would represent a serious escalation and could have immediate diplomatic consequences, including new British government protests, potential restrictions on travel for Israeli ministers and a fresh round of condemnations in parliament.

What we have asked / what we’re watching
We have contacted (or attempted to contact) Ben-Gvir’s office, the Israeli prime minister’s office and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office for comment and clarification. At the time of publication there was no verified statement confirming the attribution. (If and when official responses are released, those will be reported.)

We will watch for video or audio of the remark, an official transcript, or confirmations from multiple reputable news organisations before treating the quote as confirmed.

Background reading
Why Ben-Gvir is a flashpoint in UK–Israel relations (sanctions, prior comments): Reuters / UK government statements.

Recent row over the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state and Israeli government reactions.

Recent incidents involving British MPs and Israel (denials of entry) that have already heightened tensions.