What it’s about:

In the wake of the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, which inflicted mass casualties on Israelis, many Israeli citizens have gravitated toward obtaining firearms for protection. This shift, unprecedented in scale, reflects a transformed mindset regarding personal security amidst heightened threats in the region.

Why it matters:

Israel has traditionally relied on its military and stringent security measures for protection against terrorism rather than on widespread gun ownership among civilians. However, the recent actions by Hamas have foregrounded the necessity for personal firearms as a counterterrorism safeguard in an environment perceived as increasingly perilous.

A Subtle Transformation:

Individuals like Erga Froman, a midwife, shifted her views post-attack. Previously unarmed, Froman decided to secure a gun license, embracing personal safety measures due to the threat landscape changes. Her experience underlines the broader societal attitude towards firearms.

The Surge in Applications:

The extent of the shift is evident in the over 260,000 new gun license applications processed following the Oct. 7 incident, a stark increase that aligns closely with the cumulative number from prior decades. Of these, more than 100,000 have been approved, marking a pronounced incline in civilian armament.

Concerns & Challenges:

While the desire for personal protection has led to a rapid increase in gun ownership, there are challenges and concerns about adequate training and responsible use. Figures like Oren Gozlan, a veteran, express worries about the lack of oversight and potential risks associated with firearms being in inexperienced hands.

Perspectives on Responsibility:

Family security, exemplified by Ayala Mirkin’s decision to arm herself during her husband’s deployment, emphasizes guns as a survival tool, not leisure. This growing movement stresses safety and responsibility, maintaining that firearms in Israel serve security purposes against tangible threats rather than recreational interests.

The Big Picture:

Amidst possible structural and regulatory challenges heightened by this increase, the broader impact remains a strengthened stance on addressing existential threats within Israel. The change continues the dialogue on how best to reconcile increasing self-reliance with collective safety standards, ensuring the commitment to preserving life stays central to personal defense strategies.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.