Israel's 'Gun Culture' and How They Prevent Mass Shootings: Can We Learn Something From Them?

Alex Traiman-Opinion : Aug 9, 2019
BreakingIsraelNews.com

While Israel does not offer its citizens any "right to bear arms" within its framework of basic laws, guns are commonplace and part of the culture in Israel. With mandatory conscription, most Israelis have handled automatic weapons while serving in the military. Soldiers, including those who are off-duty, are often seen across the country carrying machine guns, while thousands of Israelis carry handguns.

(Israel) — [BreakingIsraelNews.com] While many Israelis have weapons, they are not available to everyone and anyone. To receive a gun license, one must meet several criteria. First, an individual must live or work in a geographic area deemed to pose a higher terror risk, such as Israeli citizens living in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) or near to Arab villages with a history of producing terrorists. (Image: Illegal firearms seized by the Israeli Police in an operation entitled 'Operation Law and Order,' seen on display at the Police Southern District, April 10, 2014 /Source: Flash90-via Times of Israel)

Next, a family doctor who has been treating an individual for many years must complete a detailed health evaluation certifying that the applicant is both physically capable and mentally stable enough to carry a weapon. An applicant also needs to complete a shooting course with a certified instructor and demonstrate sufficient mastery (it's not too difficult) of handling and shooting a weapon. Before a license is granted, a detailed security check is performed on applicants by Israeli authorities.

Once granted, a license then permits an individual to own and carry a single handgun, and... Subscribe for free to Breaking Christian News here

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