'This will be an all out war': Israel Police launches operation clamping down on youth crime

Under the firm direction of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, the Israel Police is embarking on a decisive, countrywide operation to combat the alarming rise in youth crime. This initiative, involving hundreds of Border Police officers, signals a clear message: a 'zero tolerance' policy will be enforced against individuals who disrupt public order, undermine governance, and inflict harm upon citizens. Minister Ben-Gvir's strong stance underscores the urgency of the situation, stating, 'This will be an all-out war. We will restore security to the streets and peace to parents – anyone who harms Israeli citizens will encounter the heavy hand of the Israel Police and pay a heavy price.'

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the operation would reflect a "zero tolerance" approach to those who "disrupt public order, undermine governance, and harm citizens."

The operation comes as a direct response to a spate of violent incidents involving young offenders in recent weeks. The tragic murder of Yemanu Binyamin Zalka, a 21-year-old IDF veteran working at Pizza Hut, after he asked a group of teenagers to stop spraying silly string, has particularly galvanized public outrage and police action. The fact that nine teenagers were arrested for this senseless killing, with two later released to house arrest, highlights the deep-seated issues of juvenile delinquency and violence that demand immediate and robust intervention.

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The sight of teenagers engaging in murderous violence is unacceptable. We will not accept it, and we will root them out.

With bolstered forces, including both undercover and uniformed officers, and the deployment of Border Police to tension hotspots like entertainment centers in Tel Aviv, the police are determined to reclaim public spaces and ensure the safety of all citizens. The Investigations and Intelligence Division is spearheading this effort, working in close cooperation with operational units and district commands. This comprehensive approach reflects Israel's commitment to tackling the root causes of youth crime while ensuring swift and severe consequences for perpetrators, aiming to restore a sense of security and order across the nation.

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This will be an all-out war. We will restore security to the streets and peace to parents - anyone who harms Israeli citizens will encounter the heavy hand of the Israel Police and pay a heavy price.