Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has expressed strong disapproval of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s intentions to create a “unity government” with Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot, warning that such a coalition could be detrimental to Israel. In a recent interview, Ben-Gvir articulated his concerns, asserting that while a unifying government might project a favorable image internationally, it wouldn’t provide tangible benefits for the nation.
Critique of Unity Government Plans
Ben-Gvir articulated his skepticism regarding Netanyahu’s proposal, stating, “Netanyahu wants a unity government with Eisenkot and various other figures. Maybe that would look a little better to certain people around the world, but it would not actually benefit Israel. It would harm Israel.” This commentary surfaced amidst notable tensions between Ben-Gvir and Netanyahu concerning the structure of the forthcoming government and Ben-Gvir’s political aspirations.
In a contentious note, Ben-Gvir alleged that Netanyahu had assured European officials of his exclusion from any future coalition—a claim vigorously denied by the Likud party. Furthermore, Netanyahu has signaled his refusal to offer Ben-Gvir the Defense Ministry, a role the latter is keen to assume.
Political Aspirations Amidst Tensions
Ben-Gvir’s party, Otzma Yehudit, has played a significant role in Netanyahu’s current coalition. Recent polls suggest that Otzma Yehudit is anticipated to secure around eight seats in the upcoming Knesset elections due on October 27. The political landscape is particularly fractured, as neither Netanyahu’s coalition nor the opposition appears poised to secure a majority.
Addressing the potential formation of a right-wing government, Ben-Gvir expressed optimism that mobilizing voters on election day could facilitate a Knesset majority for Netanyahu’s bloc. “I think we can form a government … if we get all our voters out into the streets,” he stated, reinforcing his commitment to a right-wing coalition rather than a divided government.
Despite ongoing conflicts with Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir expressed a desire for the prime minister to maintain his position post-election. He urged Netanyahu to align more closely with him, saying, “Netanyahu needs to stand with me on the Right and pursue a full, full right-wing government. Only that way will we be able to save the State of Israel.”
Views on Coalition Partnerships
When questioned about potential coalition partners, Ben-Gvir emphatically dismissed any collaboration with Arab parties, such as Ra’am and the Joint List, labeling them as supporters of terrorism. He also indicated opposition to forming a government with figures from the previous opposition, such as ex-prime minister Naftali Bennett.
His vision for potential alliances remains mixed; despite previous tensions regarding haredi conscription, he expressed an ongoing belief in forming coalitions with the ultra-Orthodox parties, Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ). His right-wing ideology, often labeled extreme by critics, has drawn scrutiny for impacting Israel’s international reputation and escalating crime rates.
In light of his political aspirations, Ben-Gvir revealed his ambition to take on the role of Defense Minister, stating, “I want to do for the IDF what I did for the police.” He believes that if appointed, he could initiate substantial changes, including dismantling the Palestinian Authority and enhancing enlistment among haredi communities. Despite facing criticism for not serving in the IDF, he cites his foresight regarding threats from Hamas as justification for his candidacy.
Ben-Gvir’s steadfast stance on national security reflects a hardline approach that seeks to reinforce Israel’s military policies while challenging perceptions of his leadership amidst criticism from various factions.