Ben-Gvir Aims for Execution of Hamas Terrorist Salameh
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir recently met in prison with Hassan Salameh, a senior member of Hamas’ military wing who was convicted for orchestrating a series of deadly suicide bombings that resulted in numerous Israeli casualties during the 1990s. This meeting marked a significant moment for Ben-Gvir, who recalled his participation in protests demanding stringent actions against Salameh following the attacks. Now, as the national security minister, he stated his intention to work towards having Salameh executed.
Salameh was a key figure behind a wave of suicide bombings that targeted Israel in the mid-1990s. He played a crucial role in planning two bombings on Jerusalem’s Route 18, which occurred just a week apart in February and March of 1996, killing dozens and injuring many more. During the meeting, Ben-Gvir reminded Salameh of the aftermath of those attacks and the public outcry for justice.
On February 25, 1996, a suicide bomber detonated explosives on a Route 18 bus in Jerusalem, claiming the lives of 24 individuals. That same day, another attack at the Ashkelon Junction resulted in the death of IDF soldier Hofit Ayesh. A week later, another bombing on the same bus route killed an additional 20 people. Salameh was operating within Hamas’ military wing at the time, and following the assassination of Hamas bombmaker Yahya Ayyash in January 1996, he was tasked by military commander Mohammed Deif to lead a campaign of revenge attacks against Israel.
The manhunt for Salameh concluded in May 1996 when an IDF force located him in the Hebron area, where he was shot and wounded before being arrested and tried in Israel. A military court convicted him and sentenced him to 46 cumulative life sentences, along with an additional 20 years in prison. A United Nations document regarding his sentence indicates that he was found responsible for three suicide attacks that resulted in 46 deaths and approximately 90 injuries. Notably, one judge on the panel believed Salameh should receive the death penalty.
Salameh's Continued Influence in Hamas
Despite spending decades in prison, Salameh has remained a prominent figure within Hamas. In 2023, a book he authored while incarcerated was published in the Gaza Strip, titled “Buses Catch Fire.” This book focuses on the attacks carried out in retaliation for Ayyash’s assassination and was launched at a ceremony attended by senior members of Hamas’ military wing.
Final Assessment
Ben-Gvir's recent statements and actions reflect a broader commitment to addressing terrorism and ensuring justice for victims of such attacks. His meeting with Salameh underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding national security in Israel and the government's stance on dealing with convicted terrorists. As discussions about Salameh's fate continue, the implications of Ben-Gvir's intentions may resonate throughout the political landscape, influencing public opinion and policy regarding terrorism and security measures in the region.
The meeting between Ben-Gvir and Salameh not only highlights the personal journey of the minister but also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of terrorism on Israeli society. As the government navigates its approach to dealing with individuals like Salameh, the balance between justice and security remains a critical issue. Ben-Gvir's vow to pursue the death penalty for Salameh may spark further debate on the effectiveness and morality of capital punishment in the context of national security.
