National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir was presented with a birthday cake decorated with an image of a noose during his 50th birthday celebration, according to photos shared online. The symbol is widely seen as a reference to proposed legislation he has long supported that would mandate the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of terrorism.

The event had already drawn criticism after Ben Gvir invited members of the police General Command Staff to attend. Police Commissioner Danny Levy permitted the senior officers to be present at the celebration.

Ben Gvir has faced ongoing scrutiny over allegations that he exerts undue influence over the police. Critics argue that his close ties with law enforcement leadership risk undermining the independence of the police, and petitions have been filed calling for his dismissal.